But it is not just about drinking water, it is about doing it the right way. Chicago-based health and fitness expert Traci Danielson Mitchell joined us in our ABC7 studio to talk about avoiding the dangers of hyponatremia, a condition Traci says runners can develop if they drink too much water.
According to a federal government website, "Hyponatremia is a metabolic condition in which there is not enough sodium (salt) in the body fluids outside the cells." Traci says, this can put runners at risk of serious medical complications that can often mimic the symptoms of dehydration.
Traci's Tips:
Maintain proper hydration. Replenish about every 30 minutes, depending on your pace
Drink when you're thirsty
Drink or eat supplements that will give you the electrolytes you need, including sodium
Typically, faster runners need more fluid per hour than slower runners.
