Exercise is the healthiest and most effective way to lose weight, and it also has benefits for improving immune function and overall physical well-being. After exercising, our bodies lose a lot of water and we may feel thirsty. So, can we drink water immediately after exercising?
Can we drink water immediately after exercising?
If the amount of exercise is small and sweating is minimal, it is okay to drink water immediately to replenish fluids. However, it is important to drink in small amounts and avoid drinking a large volume at once.
If the exercise is intense and there is a significant loss of fluids, it is not advisable to immediately replenish water.
Why should we not drink water immediately after intense exercise?
After intense exercise, drinking a large amount of water can irritate the stomach, especially if it is cold water. This can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, hinder the diaphragm's normal movement, and affect breathing. Additionally, when sweating, the sweat also carries away some of the body's salt content. Drinking a large amount of water immediately after can increase sweat production, leading to further salt loss and an increased volume of blood circulation, which puts added strain on the heart.
How long should we wait before drinking water after exercise?
It is best to rest for about half an hour after exercise, until the pulse and heart rate return to normal levels, before drinking water in moderate amounts. It is important to note that water should be consumed in small amounts and not exceed 100 milliliters each time, with an interval of 10 minutes between water intake.
How much water should we drink after exercise?
In cases of light exercise and minimal sweating, it is recommended to replenish with 100 milliliters of water at a time, followed by water intake every 5 to 10 minutes. If the exercise is intense and you are extremely thirsty, you can rinse your mouth with water or drink no more than 50 milliliters, and once the body returns to a normal state, you can start replenishing fluids with 100 milliliters each time.
How to drink water correctly after exercise?
Avoid drinking chilled water or beverages after exercise, as the body's blood vessels are in an excited state and consuming cold drinks can easily irritate the digestive system, causing discomfort.
Do not consume sports drinks casually, as they contain not only water but also glucose, sodium, and potassium. These substances should only be replenished when there is significant loss. If there is no significant loss of sodium and potassium during exercise, drinking sports drinks can increase the sodium and potassium content in the body, affecting the balance of water and electrolytes.
After intense exercise, it is best to choose warm water or room temperature fruit juice for consumption.
