With the recent rise of high intensity workout regimens such as CrossFit, hospital ERs are seeing an increased number of cases involving rhabdomyolysis. Never heard of it? Most people haven’t. It’s a critical illness involving the breakdown of muscle mass due to muscle injury, usually the result of improper exercise techniques and dehydration. When muscle mass breaks down, it releases a protein called myoglobin into the bloodstream, which can cause life-threatening kidney failure.

Symptoms:

• General weakness
• Severe muscle pain and stiffness
• Dark urine, decreased urine output
• Joint pain

In order to remedy rhabdomyolysis, extensive hydration is key. In the ER, doctors typically prescribe multiple deliveries of a 1L normal saline IV, or if kidney failure has already occurred, dialysis may be required.

Prevent rhabdomyolysis by maintaining proper hydration before, during and after your workout routine. BANa Rehydration Drink capitalizes on the properties of sodium to deliver more effective rehydration than water or leading sports drinks. Four bottles of BANa is the equivalent of a 1L normal saline IV. Drink 1 to 2 bottles during an intense workout and 1 to 2 bottles afterward for recovery in order to maximize hydration and head off rhabdomyolysis before it occurs.