Active children can become dehydrated very quickly in the sweltering heat, said Dr. Robert Shulman at the USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center in Houston. So, fill them up with plenty of water before they go outside.
"Dehydration can cause a child to become dizzy or drowsy, develop headaches and a dry mouth, and in severe cases become unconscious," said Shulman, also a professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine and director of the nutritional support team at Texas Children's Hospital.
In addition to water, sports drinks and fruit juices are also good. Although for most children, sports drinks offer little advantage over plain, cool water. It is best to avoid drinks that contain high levels of caffeine. Caffeine is known to increase the flow of urine, so instead of replenishing the body, it can contribute to dehydration.
Many times older kids are so preoccupied with an outdoor activity that they play to the point of heat exhaustion. The amount of liquid children need depends on the heat, degree of activity, and how long they play outside.
"Parents need to step in and make sure children have plenty to drink before and during play time," said Shulman. Active kids need to "tank up" on fluids before going out and rehydrate every 15 to 20 minutes while playing during the summer to help prevent heat-related illnesses.
