HHS HealthBeat (September 04, 2006)

Waiting for cool

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I'm Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

Just because school is starting doesn't mean fall is here. September can have heat waves, and people who exercise outside can get heat injuries just like in the dog days of August.

That's no reason to stay indoors, of course – just to keep being careful. Heat-related illness is preventable.

For instance, heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from your body. They have to be replaced, and a sports beverage is one way to do that. And keeping hydrated is crucial. But how much should you drink? At the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, George Luber:

"Drink nonalcoholic, cool beverages frequently. An adult could expect to drink about two to four glasses of nonalcoholic fluids each hour that they are outdoors." (nine seconds)

Don't wait until you are thirsty to drink. Anticipate drinking several hours before activities in the heat.

Learn more at www.hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I'm Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: September, 26 2006