Medical Facts for Pilots

Article by Dr Ken Wishaw from Gliding International.

“On longer flights (say over two hours) we should be aiming to replace what we are losing. Sports drinks are appropriate for this. As we are a ‘light physical activity in a hot environment’, some dilution from the recommended concentration can be used if this makes it more palatable. Which brand is not as critical as what tastes good to you.”

This Factsheet is from Sports Dietitians Australia

Depending on the goals of your athletes training or competition, eating and drinking during exercise may be required to help your athletes train and compete to their full potential. Failing to fuel or hydrate correctly (either too much or too little) during exercise can result in:

• Earlier onset of fatigue
• Reduced speed / intensity
• Reduced endurance
• Poor concentration and decision making
• Skill errors
• Stomach/Gut upset or
• Fluid overload