Dehydration can affect your golf game, with research showing that it can reduce your exercise endurance by almost half. When you lack hydration, your blood volume decreases, you sweat less, your core temperature rises, and your muscle glycogen use rises. You can feel fatigued, develop a headache, and lose the ability to focus on your game. In order to ensure you are at your best every time you head out to the greens, make sure to stay hydrated before, during, and after your game. Bring your favorite Vapur anti-bottle so you can drink all you need while knowing that you are staying healthy while doing your share to save the Planet.
Ensure You are Hydrated Before Starting Play
Don’t wait until you are thirsty or you have a headache before drinking water since by then, you will probably already be dehydrated. Although there is no definitive answer for how much water you need to drink prior to a game, US News generally recommends that you drink half your body weight (pounds) in fluid ounces. Don’t overdo it, since if you have too much water in your system in relation to your sodium levels, your electrolyte levels can diminish through sweat and your sodium levels can drop dangerously low. In addition to having a drink prior to starting, avoid hitting the greens if you have a hangover. Alcohol has dehydrating effects and it can affect your aim and coordination.
Eat Regularly Throughout the Day
Enjoying five to six small meals the day you are golfing and including a good balance of proteins, grains, healthy fats, and fresh fruits and vegetables can help boost hydration. On hotter days, opt for fruits with a high water content such as citrus fruits and watermelon. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks as these have a dehydrating effect. During your game, bring one or more Vapur bottles and take a few sips between holes. You can also alternate water with sports drinks, which are high in electrolytes. Be wary of commercial brands containing too much sugar, though. Make your own isotonic blend by combining 100% fruit juice, coconut water, and a pinch of salt. If you want to sweeten your drink, use stevia instead of artificial sweeteners or sugar.
What to Drink After Your Game
After negotiating nine or 18 holes, remember to replace any fluids lost during your many hours on the greens. You can monitor how much you need to drink by weighing yourself before and after your game. If you have lost 1.5% of your body weight or less, you are well hydrated. If you have lost more than this percentage, you may be dehydrated, and you should start drinking water and/or your isotonic solution quickly.
Dehydration can affect your golf game. Its effects can include fatigue, a dry mouth, and a headache, none of which are conducive to maintaining your focus, balance, and coordination. Remember to make hydration a priority before, during, and after your game, and try to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and other dehydrating substances the day before (and the day of) your game.
