Your “Thirst” Response
“Thirst” is a built in survival mechanism that our body uses to keep us alive.
Some other trigger’s of “Thirst Response”
• Not drinking enough water to replace water used e.g. sweat, breathing out (exhaling)
• High core body temperature due to illness e.g. cold or flu
• Lack of fluid intake during exercise/sport (studies recommend you drink 3 cups of water per pound lost in sweat)
• Climate you live in e.g. hot & dry or subtropical (hot & humid)
• Height above sea level (elevation)
• Food that you have eaten e.g. hot, spicy, dry food (contains reduced water content)
• Amount of calories eaten (the higher your caloric intake, the more water you need to drink)
• Drinking diuretic fluids e.g. soda’s, alcohol, caffeine based drinks
• Age “Thirst Response” diminishes in some people and the elderly
• Decreased blood volume (lowered blood pressure)
• Having too much salt/salty foods and snacks in your diet
Water is the most abundant molecule in the human body, making up approximately 70% of our bodyweight. It performs many important internal functions e.g. maintaining core body temperature; transporting vitamins, minerals, hormones; lubricating joints, eyes, intestines.
Always ensure your body doesn’t become Dehydrated. Consume small amounts of water regularly throughout each day so you maintain your body in a steady “Hydrated State.” This will assist with your health, wellness, sports performance and enjoyment. It will also ensure that your body doesn’t become stressed/put under pressure unnecessarily thereby activating its “Thirst Response.”
Remember to Hydrate Before / During / After All Forms of Exercise
Our guest blogger is Paul Barry and elite sports and conditioning coach from Brisbane, Australia. He is qualified in diverse fields including Advanced Nutrition, Sports Supplementation, Massage, Anatomy and Sports Physiology. His email address is pbelitecoach@gmail.com.
