True of False (see answers below)

Questions

1. Well-conditioned athletes are in no danger from heat and humidity.
2. Drinking plenty of fluids will help your feel better and maintain your energy during hot weather when you sweat a lot.
3. Eating more in the winter keeps your warm.
4. Hot drinks keep you warm in the cold.
5. It is important to drink as much in the cold as in the heat.

Answers

1. False. High heat and humidity are harder on those in poor physical condition, but athletes can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke too. When the weather bureau says there is a heat wave, slow down or exercise in a swimming pool or air-conditioned room.

2. True. The most important step to maintaining your energy during a workout is to drink plenty of fluid (water, juices and other nonalcoholic beverages). Also, you'll feel better if you emphasize fruits and vegetables in the summer. Eating proteins and fats increases the body's heat production.

3. False. You don't need more calories in the winter if you spend most of your time indoors and dress warmly when you go out. However, activities such as cross-country skiing and chopping wood can burn up to 600 calories and hour..

4. False. Hot drinks may have a psychological benefit but the do not do anything to boost your body temperature. Hot drinks can dilate your blood vessels in the skin and make you feel warm, but actually lead to a small amount of heat loss.

5. True. It is easy to become dehydrated in the cold weather because of the water you lose from sweating and breathing (you have to warm and moisten the air as you inhale). Dehydration hinders the body's ability to regulate temperature. Thus, if you become dehydrated in the cold, you feel colder.