Dehydration
Written by David R. Reed
Whether you are in the tropics, the desert, or the Arctic, drink whenever
you are thirsty. No matter the quantity of water you may have, small or
big. Rationing will not help. The average man does not drink enough water.
His thirst is often slaked before the water budget is balanced again. American
doctors made this observation in the last few years at various bases in
the Arctic and Antarctic. The soldiers stationed there had no thirst because
of the cold climate and drank little; as a result their bodies suffered
from progressive dehydration. This was discovered when the men often complained
of constant fatigue. They were URGED to drink a certain amount of water
every meal, and they soon felt much better.
Points to remember regarding water, its consumption and dehydration:
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In warm weather, you may need upwards of a gallon or more a day to replace
losses. Even in cold weather you need over a liter (2 pints) a day.
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Boil all water no matter where you find it, or treat it chemically.
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Stalking even short distances will result in dehydration. Drink your water.
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It Takes 50% more heat to melt snow than to melt ice.
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On icebergs there are always depressions filled with fresh water.
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Rationing water will not help you.
The last point is critical. The Apache traveled from one water hole to
another without carrying water. To saturate your system drink as much as
you can hold and urinate. Repeat the process several times and you will
have as much water as your system can hold. When your mouth feels dry you
can keep a small pebble in it to suck on. Breathe through your nose to
keep moisture from escaping through your breath. Do not spit. Try not to
work hard enough to perspire.
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