Issue 031

November 2007

·      Do a test cut to work out how much you can drop

·      Plan carefully and monitor your weight so you don’t find yourself having to cut more than you expected

·      Start small - don’t make a big cut the first time you try it

·      Never cut weight alone. If you are using a sauna or sweat suit, make sure you have someone with you at all times

·      Don’t spend longer than fifteen minutes at a time in the sauna

·      Watch out for signs of heat stroke (e.g. absence of sweating, rapid pulse, dizziness, difficulty breathing, hallucinations, confusion, disorientation). In the case of worrying symptoms, cool off immediately with cold water and/or ice and seek urgent medical help. Make sure that the person with you also knows this

·      Use a rehydration drink containing sodium (eg. diarolyte, pedialyte). Never drink plain water, squash or other dilute sodium free drinks when dehydrated.