Of the many things the best of the best in golf do versus what we don’t, staying hydrated during a round or practice session is one. Some may think the call to stay hydrated might be overdone, but you just can’t argue with the effects dehydration has on the body…

Mild to moderate effects of dehydration on the body

• Decreases the ability of the body and brain to function during a game of golf

• Decreases the ability to maintain the force needed to hit the ball

• Decreases ability to stay focused throughout the round

• General physical impairment including fatigue, dizziness and confusion

According to the Mayo Clinic, the most extreme effects of dehydration on the body include:

Heat injury. If you don’t drink enough fluids when you exercise vigorously and sweat profusely, you may end up with a heat injury, ranging in severity from mild heat cramps to heat exhaustion or potentially fatal heat stroke.

Urinary and kidney problems. Prolonged or repeated episodes of dehydration can cause urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and even kidney failure.

Seizures. Electrolytes – such as potassium and sodium – help carry electrical signals from cell to cell. If your electrolytes are out of balance, normal electrical messages can get confused, which can lead to involuntary muscle twitches and sometimes loss of consciousness.

Low blood volume shock (hypovolemic shock). It is one of the most serious and sometimes fatal complications of dehydration. It occurs when low blood volume leads to low blood pressure and a drop in the amount of oxygen in your body.

The idea is to continually replenish the fluids you lose through sweating while training or playing on the course. Water is considered by experts to be the best thing to consume to achieve this. Many golfers turn to sports or energy drinks high in sugar and/or caffeine. While it’s true that you should be concerned about replenishing electrolytes (especially sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium), and turning to a sports drink seems reasonable, be sure to check the label to see the sugar content. A better option, to give you a much-needed energy boost, beyond water, is to pack snacks such as fruit, trail mix, granola bars, or even a chicken or butter sandwich with you. of peanut.

Golf and beer go hand in hand, however, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration. If you like to have an adult drink or two while playing, do so, but don’t forget to pack some bottled water with you as well. Drinking bottled water between beers will help you stay hydrated.