15 august 2024 : Canadian triathlete Tyler Mislawchuk garnered attention at the 2024 Paris Olympics, not only for his commendable 9th place finish in the men’s triathlon but also for an unforeseen incident that transpired on July 31, the day following the race’s postponement due to hazardous levels of fecal matter in the Seine River after heavy rainfall.
After enduring the challenging swim in the Seine, Mislawchuk was observed vomiting more than ten times, raising alarms regarding the water quality of this renowned Parisian waterway. In an interview with CBC, he remarked, “I happened to swallow a lot of water during the race.” He further clarified, “It had nothing to do with the quality. My stomach was just extremely full, and that became a limiting factor for me in the race. When you combine that with one hour and 40 minutes of exerting yourself to the maximum, things are bound to happen.”
He also noted that being from Canada, he had not fully acclimatized to the warmer climate in France.
Dr. Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan, a consultant gastroenterologist at Fortis Hospitals Bengaluru, shared with indianexpress.com, “As a gastroenterologist, I have had the privilege of working with athletes across various levels. A recurring observation is the vital importance of hydration in their performance. However, it is a delicate balance; excessive hydration can be just as harmful as insufficient hydration.”
Excessive water consumption and its impact on the digestive system during intense physical activity
Dr. Srinivasan explained that during vigorous exercise, the body prioritizes blood flow to the muscles and skin for cooling purposes, resulting in a significant reduction of blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract. When a large volume of water is consumed, particularly during such intense exertion, the digestive system is already in a compromised state.
Delayed Gastric Emptying: The stomach’s capacity to transfer its contents into the small intestine is slowed, leading to sensations of fullness, bloating, and even nausea, which can impede performance.
Intestinal Discomfort: The surplus water may induce discomfort and cramping in the intestines.
Hyponatremia: In uncommon yet severe instances, an excessive intake of water without sufficient electrolyte replacement can lead to a dilution of sodium levels in the bloodstream. This condition, known as hyponatremia, may result in symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and can even be life-threatening.
While the consumption of clean water is crucial, it is important to note that contaminated water can pose additional risks. “It may harbor pathogens or irritants that can further strain your digestive system, potentially resulting in diarrhea or vomiting, which can worsen dehydration.”
What effects can a sudden transition from cold to hot weather have on an athlete’s performance?
According to Dr. Srinivasan, the body requires time to adjust to exercising in warmer conditions. During this acclimatization, the rate of sweating increases, making the balance of electrolytes even more vital. “An athlete who has not acclimatized is at a higher risk for heat exhaustion and heatstroke.”
In warmer climates, he notes, the body sweats more to regulate temperature, which leads to the loss of fluids and electrolytes. If these are not adequately replaced, dehydration can occur, negatively affecting performance and heightening the risk of heat-related illnesses.
How can athletes effectively manage hydration while avoiding the dangers of excessive water consumption?
Ensuring proper hydration is essential for peak performance; however, overhydration can pose significant risks. Dr. Srinivasan advises that athletes should begin their events well-hydrated but should refrain from consuming excessive amounts of water immediately prior to competition.
“During the event, it is advisable to take small, frequent sips of water instead of consuming large quantities at once. Incorporating electrolytes into your hydration plan is crucial for replenishing lost minerals and maintaining fluid equilibrium,” he states.
Athletes should also monitor the color of their urine. A pale yellow hue indicates adequate hydration, while a dark yellow or amber color may signal dehydration. Thirst is a reliable indicator of fluid requirements; however, in extreme conditions, athletes may need to hydrate even in the absence of thirst.
What additional measures can athletes implement to reduce risks?
Besides careful hydration management, Dr Srinivasan asserts, athletes can take other steps to protect their health:
*Acclimatisation: Gradual exposure to hot climates helps the body adapt and perform better in the heat.
*Heat Management Strategies: Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, seeking shade when possible, and using cooling towels can help regulate body temperature.