Swimmers can enjoy the cool clean waters of Whiskeytown rather than endure a chlorinated pool day after day. But as the summertime approaches, we all have to be mindful of the rising temperatures and the need to drink more fluids. A phenomenon called voluntary dehydration occurs when we stress our body with exercise. When in this state, the athlete's body will only absorb two thirds of the fluid consumed. So when your body needs fluid the most, it has difficulty absorbing it.
Voluntary dehydration makes drinking water at consistent intervals even more crucial.
By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already in the first stages of dehydration and your athletic performance is effected. Under normal circumstances, the human body needs about 2-2.5 quarts of water each day to function. Athletes may need up to 3 gallons of fluid depending on the duration of their activity and the amount they sweat. Then, after removing sweat soaked clothes, weigh yourself afterwards. Each pound of weight loss equals one quart of fluid loss.