What to Drink in the Heat

Well, it's official! We set a record for 5 straight days of record-setting heat. So, what's the optimal drink for being active in the heat?

It depends on a few factors like:

- how long you're being active

- how intense your activity is

- weather conditions (heat index, humidity, etc.)

Basically, it boils down to how much you are sweating.

Generally, water is sufficient for most activities that are less than 1 hour, short or light in intensity, and/or climate controlled. Remember, to hydrate before, during, AND after physical activity. Lack of thirst is NOT a reliable sign of hydration!

Flavored or enhanced waters can encourage drinking more fluids (due to the taste). But, some can just as easily start to calorically erase your hard work.

Sports drinks contain carbohydrates (sugar) and electrolytes (salt and potassium) to help replace what is lost during long and/or intense workouts. A cheap, easy recipe is in the Men's Health article (link below)...

Energy drinks are often high in calories and have varying amounts of caffeine. This can be dangerous for people with caffeine sensitivities or may have a dehydrating effect. The long-term effects of some common ingredients are not yet known.

Please be VERY CAREFUL about being active outside right now.

Be active with a friend. * Choose a cooler part of day. * Find a shady path.

Learn and recognize the signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

For more information, check out:

- Product Comparison: http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/what-to-drink-when-you-exercise

- Kids/Teens: http://kidshealth.org/parent/sports_medicine_center/q_a/power_drinks.html#

- By Activity Level: http://www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/beverages/sports-drinks-facts