Hello All I saw this on another list server
The Grand Canyon Rangers have been learning first hand the effects of simply drinking water in heat. They recommend eating with fluids. Here's an excerpt from: http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/hike-smart.htm Drink and Eat Often YOU SWEAT AROUND 1/2 TO 1 QUART OF WATER AND ELECTROLYTES FOR EVERY HOUR YOU WALK IN THE HEAT. This fluid/electrolyte loss can even exceed 2 quarts per hour if you hike uphill in direct sunlight and during the hottest time of the day. Because inner canyon air is so dry and hot, sweat evaporates instantly, making its loss almost imperceptible. Do not wait until you are feeling thirsty to start replacing fluids and electrolytes. By the time you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Even a mild level of dehydration can make hiking a lot less fun. The more dehydrated you become, the less efficient your body becomes at walking and cooling. Your body can only absorb about 1 quart of fluid per hour, so drink ½ to 1 quart of water or sports drink every hour that you are hiking in the heat. Carry a water bottle in your hand and drink small amounts often. Balance your food intake with fluid consumption, else you run the risk of becoming dangerously debilitated and severely ill. Food is your body's primary source of fuel and salts (electrolytes) while hiking in the canyon. Eat a salty snack every time you take a drink. AND ....................... Stay Wet and Stay Cool KEEP YOURSELF SOAKING WET TO STAY COOL. This is one of the best things that you can do for yourself. Whenever you are near water, make sure that you wet (actually soak) yourself down. If you hike while soaking wet you will stay reasonably cool. This will make a wonderful difference in how well you feel, especially at the end of the day! --------------------------------------------------------------------- Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: texascavers-unsubscr...@texascavers.com For additional commands, e-mail: texascavers-h...@texascavers.com
