NASA Develops Rehydration Beverage
by Tim Crytser
Ever think you want to go to the moon? How about go on a space walk and fix the Hubble Space Telescope? These are extreme
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Space boot technology in athletic shoes is meant to put more spring in your step.
Dirk Anschutz/Getty Images |
In 1958, President Eisenhower signed the Space Act, officially creating the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). From the beginning, the purpose for the new branch was not only to explore outer space but to benefit all man kind. In its 50-year history, NASA has certainly fulfilled that role with over 6300 patents and countless products used everyday by you and me.
Did you know that NASA is responsible for clear braces, scratch resistance lenses, memory foam, the ear thermometer, shoe insoles, long distance telecommunication, adjustable smoke detectors, safety grooving in concrete, cordless tools, and water filters. That is an impressive lineup of goods and services that NASA has provided the general public. Where, you might ask, does Tang rank in the list of NASA's contributions to mankind? Interestingly enough the most popular product associated with NASA was not created by nor improved upon by NASA. Tang, the fruity powdered drink that was created by General Mills in 1957, became linked with NASA because it was selected as part of a 1962 experiment on the Gemini program to find optimal foods to eat in space. NASA did not invent Tang.
The following is a press release from NASA:
To help keep astronauts at peak performance during missions, NASA researched, qualified and patented a highly effective electrolyte concentrate formula that maintains and restores optimal body hydration levels quickly and conveniently. Developed as a remedy for dehydration, it helps prevent the loss of body fluids during heavy exercise, heat exposure and illness. It also can be used to treat and prevent dehydration caused by altitude sickness and jetlag.
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While aboard the International Space Station, astronaut Sunita Williams exercises rigorously to maintain optimum health.
Photo Credit: NASA |
"We developed the hydration formula to perform optimally under the most extreme conditions. The health of our highly trained astronauts was paramount," explained John Greenleaf, now a former Ames research scientist and inventor of the formula. "With all that Americans and the government have invested in the space program and our astronauts, this is one clear way to protect and maximize that investment. And now the general public will benefit from this research as well."
The novel electrolyte formula contains a specific ratio of key ingredients, sodium chloride and sodium citrate, for rapid restoration of hydration. These electrolytes, dissolved in water, optimize the levels of sodium ions in the body. The beverage is an isotonic formulation that restores both intra- and extracellular body fluid volumes in dehydrated astronauts, athletes and others.
For more information about 'The Right Stuff' from Wellness Brands, Inc., visit:
www.therightstuff-usa.com
For more information about NASA's Innovative Partnerships Program, and NASA technology infusion activities, visit:
ipp.nasa.gov
For information about NASA and agency programs, visit:
www.nasa.gov
I can't wait to get my hands on this stuff and see if I'm astronaut worthy!
That's it for now. Until next time, good luck with your training and remember, VT can always be found on the Virtual Trainer Expert Forum . In addition, be sure and check out the Racer X Virtual Trainer archive section . Your complete one-stop information zone for motocross fitness .
