Drinking water keeps us hydrated and is extremely important for the normal function of the human body. We use it to regulate our temperature, maintain blood volume, and transport nutrients, hormones and waste products around the body. When we exercise, it is crucial to hydrate more because we lose water as we sweat. The evaporation of beads of sweat on the surface of the skin is the body’s way of removing heat. A higher exercise intensity or a prolonged period of exercise results in greater levels of fluid loss through sweating.
Once the body starts to lose water during exercise, dehydration can occur. If our water levels are not replenished, then our physical performance deteriorates. A 2% reduction in body weight through sweating can cause up to a 20% decrease in performance. Sweating causes the loss of electrolytes and these salts and minerals are important in the conduction of electrical impulses. As we lose these electrolytes, there is an increase in muscle cramping.
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