Na+ and Ca2+ ingestion: plasma volume-electrolyte distribution at rest and exercise

Plasma volume (PV), protein, and electrolyte shifts were measured in two groups of five men in the supine position during rest, exercise (40-47% VO2max), and recovery in cool (Ta = 26.5 degrees C) and hot (Ta = 39.4 degrees C) environments. They drank 16-17 ml/kg hypertonic (1.5%) NaCl, isotonic (0.9%) NaCl, or hypertonic (1.5%) calcium gluconate solutions during the preexercise rest period. Hyper-Na consumption retarded the rise in PV (hypervolemia) at rest in the cool but not in the heat. Ingestion of iso-Na and hyper-Na resulted in twofold greater hypervolemia at rest in the heat. During exercise and recovery, PV was highest with hyper-Na in the heat. Hyper-Ca prevented the normal hypervolemic response at rest in both environments. The normal hypervolemic responses during exercise were not influenced by any drink composition. The results suggest hypertonic drinks may be better for maintaining PV levels during exercise in heat; but calcium must be used with care.