Quote Originally Posted by bacarver View Post
Thanks for the really good idea regarding buying a moisture-wicking undershirt. I'll look for one soon. I bet that will be much more comfortable than the cotton athletic undershirts I've been using. I'll also search for a light-weight summer jersey. OOOOHHHH. Buying more cycling clothes!!!
One problem that exists with me is that I drink diet mountain dew during my night shifts so I can stay awake. I know the caffeine is contributing to my fluid challenges. But I have to stay awake for 14 hours straight 3 nights a week. Not sure how else to do it. No coffee for me. Thanks for the ideas.

Barb
Hi Barb. As someone also suffering through Indiana's heatwave, I feel your pain. I rode last night beginning around 6:15. The heat index was close to 100 if not above. I definitely went through more water than normal and was drenched in sweat but it really wasn't that horrible. Okay, it was, but I survived! My post-ride shower was heaven, let me tell you!

I would second the recommendation that you use a moisture wicking base layer of some kind, along with a well-ventilated summer jersey. Also, I found this from one nutrition expert on Velonews.com

Java jive
Monique,
Regarding your latest web article on eating before training: What effect does caffeine have on the morning workout especially with regards to hydration. Not that I am a huge coffee drinker, but my morning training ritual does include the old cup of java.
Darryl

Hi, Darryl,
You should definitely focus on hydrating in what time is available before training in the morning. However, many nutritionists and readers would understand and sympathize with the need for a morning cup of coffee when starting your day. While I would not advise that you pre-hydrate with only coffee, the belief that caffeine actually accelerates fluid loss beyond the actual volume that you consume is no longer considered valid. Caffeine is not highly dehydrating, and can be consumed in moderate amounts before training. However, you can also hydrate with a nice homemade smoothie, juice, or just good old water. With limited time to fuel and hydrate before morning training, make sure that you consume a sports drink to provide fuel, sodium, and fluid during training. And keep in mind that the most important time to avoid caffeine because of its potential adverse effects on hydration is after training. So no caffeinated fluids after your morning training; save any subsequent java fixes for later in the day.
Monique

If I understand her correctly, then, you can probably counteract whatever effect your Mountain Dew is having by making sure you drink something in addition to it, especially before any given ride. I, too, like coffee in the moring, but I start off with a bottle of water when I first get up. Granted, it requires multiple potty breaks, but it's better than the alternative.

K-