Three independent biological mechanisms cause exercise-associated hyponatremia: evidence from 2,135 weighed competitive athletic performances
Noakes TD, Sharwood K, Speedy D, Hew T, Reid S, Dugas J, et al.
Published in Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, Vol. 102 (51), pp. 18550-5
Methodology
Pooled analysis of 2,135 weighed performances in endurance events, comparing body-weight change with post-race serum sodium, plus sodium balance modelling in 18 athletes.
Key Findings
89% finished euhydrated or lighter. Of 231 who gained weight, 19% had sodium of 129-135 mmol/L and 11% below 129 mmol/L. Post-race sodium fell linearly as weight gain rose.
Conclusions
Weight gain from drinking too much was the main cause of low sodium after exercise; preventing overdrinking prevents EAH.
Limitations
Observational pooling of several events; modelling subset small.
Supplements Studied
EAH can be prevented by insuring that athletes do not drink to excess during exercise
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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