Reverse Osmosis Water

[bcipam]

So if Reverse Osmosis Water is still H2O, what would be the problem??? I'm confused. I guess he means with regular tap water he gets some minerals or nutrients but water is water. If electrolytes are a problem add a supplement drink.

[kerrybelle]

I know (and agree) and it's the water I use everyday. Although, I usually add a little gatorade to one of my bottles. Our friend only drinks H2O, not just for biking and that's why I thought it was interesting. Nothing has changed in his routine and he is a very healthy eater and takes care of himself otherwise. So, I didn't know if there could be anything 'that different' with the RO water.

I agree with you on the electrolytes, but our friend is very skeptical about what he puts in his body, hence the only drink H2O thing! He avoids sugars, additives and proccessed foods...etc.

Kerry

[GulfCoastSwim]

Tell your friend that electrolytes help him retain the water he drinks. Without those, he's just filling his bladder. Why else do you think we feel bloated after a salty meal?

[bcipam]

I Agree with kerrybelle.

After a particularly hairy experience with heat exhaustion/dehydration I learned the hard way that water/H20 was not enough. You have to have something - either food or replacement fluids, in your system to retain the water otherwise it just sweats out and is not used by the body. I tend to use GU or Balance bars and Sports Beans, and sometimes PB sandwich or fruit to help with water retention. Obviously salt (from crackers or pretzels)is also important.

For your friend who's picky about what he puts in his body - it's OK if he's just sitting on the couch but if exercising heavily, just got to take in salts and sugars to maintain.