ASSESSMENT OF THERMOREGULATION AND NUTRITIONAL STRATEGIES TO MINIMIZE FATIGUE IN ATHLETES EXPOSED TO HEAT.

Abstract

Physical exercise in hot environments represents a significant challenge for athletic performance, especially in long-duration sports or those practiced under extreme environmental conditions. Thermoregulation, the physiological process responsible for maintaining body temperature within appropriate limits, is constantly required during physical exertion. The main objective of this research is to analyze the relationship between thermoregulation and nutrition as strategies to reduce fatigue in athletes under thermal stress. To this end, a literature review was conducted in the Medline, BVS, PubMed, LILACS, and Scielo databases between 2020 and 2025, using descriptors and Boolean operators (AND, OR), based on the Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS) and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). It was observed that adequate fluid and electrolyte intake plays a crucial role in maintaining hydroelectrolytic balance and preventing heat-related disorders. Replenishing carbohydrates during exercise, recommended in the range of 60 to 90 g/h in sessions longer than 90 minutes, has proven effective in maintaining blood glucose levels, delaying fatigue, and improving the perception of effort.