Hydration & Re-Hydration when diving during hot summer months
Online Jul 17, 2020
Written by Capt Michael Carr
During Florida's hot summer we loose copious amounts of moisture through sweat, urination and breathing. Dehydration can easily occur when on a dive boat all day, which will lead to cramps, headaches, loss of focus & concentration, & fatigue. Severe dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke (A severe medical emergency).
So, during hot weather…drink WATER. Drink water before you dive, during topside intervals, and after you dive. Soft drinks, coffee, and sugary drinks do not count as hydration. Water is hydration.
Also eat foods high in water. Snack on fruit such as watermelon, pineapple and strawberries. When air temperature is in the 90s F your body requires 5 liters (1.1 quarts) per day, so drink water!
