Question

which of the following is true regarding water metabolism during exercise?
a. in cold weather, the need for water falls dramatically because the body does not sweat.
b. the maximum loss of fluid per hour of exercise is about 0.5 liters.
c. in hot weather, sweat losses can exceed the capacity of the gi tract to absorb water, resulting in some degree of dehydration.
d. water loss of greater than 1 percent can decrease the capacity to do muscular work.

Explanation:

• Option a: In cold weather, the body still sweats (less than in hot weather) and needs water for metabolism during exercise, so the need for water does not fall dramatically. Eliminate a.
• Option b: The maximum fluid loss per hour during exercise can be higher than 0.5 liters, especially in hot conditions with heavy sweating. So b is incorrect.
• Option c: The GI tract's capacity to absorb water is generally sufficient to match sweat losses during exercise, even in hot weather. Sweat losses do not typically exceed the GI tract's absorption capacity. Eliminate c.
• Option d: Water loss of greater than 1 percent of body weight can lead to dehydration, which impairs muscular work capacity (e.g., reduced strength, endurance, and coordination). This is a well - established physiological fact.

Answer:

d. Water loss of greater than 1 percent can decrease the capacity to do muscular work.