Though it sure doesn't feel like it, Memorial Day is supposed to signal the unofficial start of summer. So those of you wanting to make the most of your day off today by taking a jog, playing ball or participating in some other form of athletic activity, be sure to drink up. With nearly three-quarters of a person's body composed of water, adequate hydration remains a critical health issue, an area doctor says. Dan Reiland Chippewa Falls twin brothers and doubles partners Matt, left, and Mike Younk took a drink between games in their sub-sectional tennis match against Superior May 21 at Memorial High School. The boys went on to win the match and advance to sectionals.
Medical professionals advise drinking lots of water before, during and after any outdoor activity.
Dr. Jeff Shepich, a family practitioner at Marshfield Clinic, reminds people that it's important for people to drink water before, during and after outdoor physical activity. The thirst mechanism isn't always as quick as it needs to be. Shepich, who works at both Marshfield Clinic's Oakwood and Urgent Care centers and has seen his share of dehydration cases, usually recommends that adults drink 10 to 16 ounces of water before beginning activity and follow up with 6 to 8 ounces of water for every 20 minutes of activity. As a guideline on how much water to drink after activity, Shepich suggests weighing yourself before and after working out, then drinking 16 ounces of fluid for every pound lost. Another way to prevent dehydration is by allowing your body to become acclimated to the warmer temperatures.