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Variability of Measurements of Sweat Sodium Using the Regional Absorbent Patch Method
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Variability of Measurements of Sweat Sodium Using the Regional Absorbent Patch Method

Christine Dziedzic, Megan L Ross, Gary J Slater and Louise M Burke
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, Vol.9(5), pp.832-838
2014
PMID: 24436351
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PDF - Author Accepted Version278.73 kBDownloadView
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url
https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2013-0480View
Published Version

Abstract

sweat testing salt fluid balance hydration electrolytes
There is interest in including recommendations for the replacement of the sodium lost in sweat in individualized hydration plans for athletes. Purpose: Although the regional absorbent patch method provides a practical approach to measuring sweat sodium losses in field conditions, there is a need to understand the variability of estimates associated with this technique. Methods: Sweat samples were collected from the forearms, chest, scapula and thigh of 12 cyclists during two standardized cycling time trials in the heat, and two in temperate conditions. Single measure analysis of sodium concentration was conducted immediately by ion-selective electrodes (ISE). A subset of 30 samples was frozen for re-analysis of sodium concentration using ISE, flame photometry (FP) and conductivity (SC). Results: Sweat samples collected in hot conditions produced higher sweat sodium concentrations than those from the temperate environment (p=0.0032). A significant difference (p=0.0048) in estimates of sweat sodium concentration was evident when calculated from the forearm average (mean±95% CI; 64±12 mmol.L-1) compared to using a four-site equation (70±12 mmol.L-1). There was a high correlation between the values produced using different analytical techniques (r2=0.95), however mean values were different between treatments (frozen-FP, frozen-SC>ISE>frozen-ISE; p less than 0.0001). Conclusion: Whole-body sweat sodium concentration estimates differed depending on the number of sites included in the calculation. Environmental testing conditions should be considered in the interpretation of results. The impact of sample freezing and subsequent analytical technique was small but statistically significant. Nevertheless, when undertaken using a standardized protocol, the regional absorbent patch method appears to be a relatively robust field test.

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