[googley]

Hi,
I have been on lithium for a couple of years now. I have recently started working out at the gym and have since been having trouble staying hydrated to the point of it making me sick. I was wondering if anyone has suggestions on how to make sure I stay hydrated enough when I exercise. I am seeing my doc next week and will talk to him about it, but was wondering if anyone else had any ideas.
Thanks.

[SpottedOwl]

Hi googley!

First...great job starting an exercise program! It can definitely help in so many areas of our lives.

I do not have any direct experience taking lithium, but I did do a lot of research on it because my father was taking it. I know it is very difficult to stay hydrated in general because the lithium acts as a diuretic.

A few thoughts for you:
Start to hydrate several hours before you work out. A lot of people only hydrate when they work out, but I've found it really useful to drink lots of water starting 2-3 hours before I work out.

Also take a look at the electrolytes you are getting. I would definitely ask your pdoc about any interactions first, but perhaps using something like smart water, or adding electrolyte drops to your water will help.

Finally, it is ok to stop and take little sips while working out. Don't drink too much or it can make you nauseous, but just a sip, swish in the mouth a bit to absorb, then swallow.

Again..please take my ideas with a grain of salt. I am no professional.

Good luck!

[googley]

Originally Posted by SpottedOwl

Hi googley!

First...great job starting an exercise program! It can definitely help in so many areas of our lives.

I do not have any direct experience taking lithium, but I did do a lot of research on it because my father was taking it. I know it is very difficult to stay hydrated in general because the lithium acts as a diuretic.

A few thoughts for you:
Start to hydrate several hours before you work out. A lot of people only hydrate when they work out, but I've found it really useful to drink lots of water starting 2-3 hours before I work out.

Also take a look at the electrolytes you are getting. I would definitely ask your pdoc about any interactions first, but perhaps using something like smart water, or adding electrolyte drops to your water will help.

Finally, it is ok to stop and take little sips while working out. Don't drink too much or it can make you nauseous, but just a sip, swish in the mouth a bit to absorb, then swallow.

Again..please take my ideas with a grain of salt. I am no professional.

Good luck!

Hi,
Thanks for the advice. I have tried to hydrate before hand also and it has still been problematic. I have always been sensitive to any changes so it has been hard. I was exercising in college and did not have this problem. Thanks for the advice,
Googley.