Students should hydrate, eat properly for peak physical performance

Washington, Aug 2 (ANI): For kids going back to school means football, cross country, cheerleading, and lacrosse. However, such activities usually take place outdoors, in the extreme heat of summer. But kids refuse to take that into account.

Now, a researcher has claimed that it is imperative that students stay hydrated and maintain high energy levels, which will make sure that they are healthy while and after playing.

According to Diane Radler, Ph.D., R.D., associate professor with the Department of Nutritional Science in the UMDNJ-School of Health Related Professions, the ideal drink for staying hydrated in the heat is water, which a person should drink at regular intervals throughout the day.

Radler recommends that students "Drink water before exercise, during, if possible, and afterwards."

She offered this tip for restoring fluids after a strenuous workout: "To measure proper hydration after exercise is to weigh yourself before the activity and then again afterwards. The weight you will lose acutely as a result of the exercise will largely be water."

For active people who prefer something other than water, Radler says sports drinks are a much better choice than so-called energy drinks.

By contrast, the lure of energy drinks is usually caffeine or an herb, such as Guarana, that contains caffeine. While caffeine in an energy drink can provide a quick jolt, that boost often gives way to a sharp crash later on.

Choosing a healthy diet is as essential as staying hydrated, Radler said.

Whatever you eat, Radler says you should allow yourself an hour to digest any meal before resuming strenuous activity. (ANI)