How long after sweating heavily from exercise can you drink water?
Nov 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
You can drink water 15 to 30 minutes after intense sweating during exercise. Drinking water immediately after heavy sweating may easily lead to increased blood volume and further accelerate blood circulation, placing extra strain on the heart's pumping function and causing discomfort such as palpitations or a racing heart. Therefore, it is advisable to wait 15 to 30 minutes after exercise before drinking water, which helps achieve better rehydration.
It is advisable to drink water 15 to 30 minutes after intense sweating during exercise.
Intense sweating during exercise causes excessive loss of water, sodium, potassium, and other trace elements through sweat, usually requiring fluid replenishment to maintain electrolyte balance. However, immediately after intense sweating, the body's metabolism is accelerated and blood vessels are dilated. Drinking water right after exercise may rapidly increase blood volume, further accelerating circulation and placing additional strain on the heart's pumping function, potentially causing discomfort such as palpitations or a racing heartbeat. Therefore, it is recommended to wait 15–30 minutes before drinking water. Prior to drinking, gradually reduce exercise intensity and movement range to allow the body to calm down progressively, which helps achieve better hydration results.
In addition, after intense sweating, it is best to drink warm water or room-temperature mineral water or purified water, consuming it in small amounts frequently. Since internal organ temperature rises after intense exercise, avoid drinking chilled or frozen water or beverages.
