Healthy Habits for the Young Athlete

Spring has just begun and summer is just around the corner. Our days have already been hot so in a few months we are going to be wishing for fall.

We have already discussed the importance of fluid intake for our little athletes. With heat being such an issue, we need to make ourselves constantly aware of adequate fluid intake in order to reduce the chance of dehydration and heat related illnesses.

Most of us believe that children tolerate the heat much better than we do. The fact is they tolerate it less efficiently. Children get hotter when exercising and adjust to heat at a much slower rate. It is important that children get fluids in before, during and after exercise. Ideally children need to drink fluids every 20 minutes during physical activity. Make sure your child drinks on a schedule and not just when they get thirsty.

Pay attention to yourself and your child during these hot days.

Some of the signs and symptoms of heat related illness are as follows:

weakness
chills
nausea
headache
faintness
disorientation
muscle cramps
reduced or cessation of sweating

Parents need to be aware of these symptoms for themselves as well as for their children. Even though you are not actually playing in the game you are still sitting out in the middle of the scorching heat. You are also prone to dehydration or heat illness as well.

Set an example of proper fluid intake for your child by modeling that yourself.

Remember in taking care of your child you should also take care of yourself.