Bargain Scuba Gear

We are always being told to drink plenty of water as being dehydrated can have a severe effect of your health , and the onset of problems can come on very quickly.

Dehydration occurs when a diver has inadequate water throughout the body. But why is this a problem? Because, as every Freshman biology major learns, water is essential to a dozen critical biochemical processes and biophysical systems.

At the most basic level, water is needed in order for cells to carry out chemical reactions. Tissues require fluid in order to stay plumped and flexible. And water is required in order to produce blood and keep it moving properly throughout the cardiovascular system.

Fluid can be lost through sweat (yes, even underwater) or urination. But the most common and extensive source of water reduction is simply through breathing.

Underwater breathing actually accelerates that effect because the air in scuba tanks is significantly drier than ordinary surface air. Just as heat flows from a warm body to a cooler one, moisture flows from wetter areas to dryer.

The watch word here is make sure you are sufficiently hydrated before a dive for your sake, your dive buddies and the rest of the dive party.