Children seem to have an endless supply of energy. However, as a parent, you need to ensure that your child has adequate hydration while exercising, playing or in hot environments. In many cases water is sufficient, although sports drinks, such as Gatorade, provide carbohydrates for energy and replenish electrolytes. Choose a sports drink when your child is sweating more intensely or otherwise more likely to become dehydrated.
Dehydration
The bottom line is that your body requires a certain amount of water to function. Water is necessary for biochemical reactions that produce energy, for blood to supply muscles with nutrients and remove waste. Water can be lost through sweat, waste and vomit. Electrolytes are minerals, such as sodium and potassium, that are necessary for the function of your brain, nerves and muscles. Electrolytes are lost with water.
Gatorade vs. Water
In addition to water, Gatorade contains extras to keep your child going during exercise. Sucrose and maltodextrin are added to Gatorade to provide sugar for energy. Electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, are also found in Gatorade to replace electrolytes lost in sweat. Gatorade also contains flavoring that may encourage your child to drink more fluid than with plain water.
Preventing Dehydration
Once your child becomes dehydrated, it's difficult to catch up by drinking fluids. If your child will be outside playing for a long time, such as a sporting event, he should start drinking fluids before the event begins and continue throughout. According to KidsHealth, thirst isn't a good sign of dehydration; your child may already be dehydrated by the time he is thirsty. KidsHealth recommends that a child playing in the heat drinks every 20 to 30 minutes.
Dehydration Symptoms
Symptoms of dehydration can be hard for a parent to recognize. While playing, a child may become less active, start cramping, complain of a dry mouth or thirst. A dehydrated child may also not produce normal amounts of sweat, tears or urine and may have dry, cool skin. If you suspect your child may be dehydrated, remove them from the physical activity and have them drink a beverage with sugar and electrolytes, such as Gatorade, over a few hours. If symptoms do not improve after two hours, take your child to a doctor as a precaution.
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