“Ashes” in Australia or “IPL” in India, players often face challenges in acclimatisation and performance at the oval. Thermoregulation and Dehydration plays a greater role in determining performance.
1. Hot environment increase intramuscular glycogen depletion, hence the need for carbohydrates increase in hot weather.
2. Dehydration is another important consideration as excess heat is lost through sweat. It can also cause muscle cramps.
3. Sodium is an important electrolyte to keep up with the blood flow but it is lost via sweat.
4. Heat increases oxidation in the body, hence antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E are beneficial if taken in the first 7 days.
Sports drinks like Gatorade, Powerade, Staminade are great options because they have flavour, sodium, carbohydrates and water. Breakfast cereals like semolina, poha, savoury dahlia , yoghurt, fruit smoothies, flavoured milk drinks, sports gels, ice creams are some options too.
Remember that snacks are palatable, easy to carry, cold and nutrient rich.