H2OAthletes study protocol: effects of hydration changes on neuromuscular function in athletes

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Human Performance

Background:

• Athletes with low total water intake (< 35.0 ml/kg/d) may experience impaired neuromuscular function and hydration status.
• Understanding the impact of hydration changes on athletes is crucial for performance optimization.
• The H2OAthletes study investigates the effects of increased water intake in this specific population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine how altering water intake affects neuromuscular performance in athletes.
• To assess the impact of hydration changes on body water compartments, fat-free mass hydration, and hydration biomarkers.
• To evaluate the intervention's effect on athletes' response to acute dehydration.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 38 national/international athletes with low water intake.
• Participants were assigned to a control group (maintained water intake) or experimental group (increased water intake > 45.0 ml/kg/d) for 4 days.
• Neuromuscular performance, hydration indices, body water compartments, and biochemical parameters were measured before and after the intervention, including exercise-induced dehydration protocols.

Main Results:

• Increased water intake led to improvements in neuromuscular performance.
• Hydration biomarkers and body water compartments showed positive changes with increased water intake.
• The intervention modulated the response to exercise-induced dehydration.

Conclusions:

• Altering hydration status through increased water intake positively impacts neuromuscular function in athletes with initially low water consumption.
• Optimizing hydration is a key factor in maintaining and enhancing athletic performance.
• Findings provide practical guidance for athletes and sports professionals on hydration strategies.