| You are going to the
2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing as a coach, official,
proud parent or as a cheering fan. The Sport Nutrition
Advisory Committee (SNAC) has developed this nutrition
resource to assist you with the travel, heat, and nutrition
challenges that supporters of Canadian athletes may
face in Beijing.
Half Way Round the World!
To prepare for the long flight, read the
Long Distance Travel tip sheet and
learn how to minimize jet lag and overcome travel challenges.
Breathe Easy
Beijing has a very high Air Pollution
Index, which can cause symptoms of increased sensitivity
to the respiratory system such as wheezing, coughing,
and labored breathing in some athletes. For information
about strategies to manage the effects of pollution,
refer to the Canadian Sport Centre Pacific Performance
Point on Pollution in Beijing.
The Heat
The average temperature in Beijing is
28°C in August, with 65% humidity. This equates
to 38°C with the humidex. Sweaty weather!
Drink Beyond Thirst
Hydration is the main nutrition challenge
in Beijing. To minimize dehydration and prevent heat
illness, you need to drink high volumes of fluid and
consume salt in foods and sport drinks especially if
you are exercising. Refer to Exercising in the
Heat? and Fluids for Athletes
for practical tips by the Coaching Association of Canada
to replace your sweat losses. Or for more comprehensive
guidelines for health and performance in China view
the published article entitled Travelling to China for
the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games by Milne and Shaw (Milne,
CJ & Shaw MTM, 2008. Travelling to China for the
Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. Br J. Sports Med 42:321-326).
HAVE A HAPPY STOMACH
Avoid Traveler’s
Diarrhea
- Do not eat from street vendors.
- Wash hands often, especially before eating.
- Use only bottled water for drinking and brushing
teeth.
Stay Regular
Dehydration in the heat and lack of vegetables
and high fiber breads and cereals can lead to constipation.
Remember to drink plenty of water to ensure you stay
regular.
To download these tips, click
here.
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