Question:
Have any of you used a Camelbak hydration system during exercise?

Or something like it? The type with the fillable bladder and you carry it on your back like a backpack and suck through a long (sort of) straw to get the water out? I was going to buy one of these but was wondering about drinking through the straw, if it will be a problem. They are a bit expensive so I wanted some other wls people's input. I go hiking with my 25 pound baby in a Kelty Kids backpack about 4 miles every other day and I am tired of carrying a water bottle. (also, we like to backpack anyway carrying our gear for backwoods camping, but we haven't done it yet with the baby and since wls) I didn't bring one at all the other day and got nauseated and dizzy from dehydration, I guess. If you are a backpacker you know how annoying it is to take your pack off to find the waterbottle and get a drink, then put the pack back on. Also I think I could use it for biking and just regular walks. What do you think? My main concern is drinking through the straw. If you have any experience with Camelbak's please respond. Thanks a bunch!!!    — A. S. (posted on June 10, 2002)

June 10, 2002
I use a camelback all the time, I had a concern pre-op about being able to hydrate enough post-op while exercising, and also discovered post-op my water had to be very cold for me to drink it. I ride a tandem bike with hubby and only one time did I run out of water. I fill 1/2 of 72 oz bladder with ice and it keeps the water cold enough for me to drink, you can sip as small or as much as needed, I find I drink more often by having so handy riding, than reaching for water bottle. It was expensive but well worth the advantages.
   — acluff

June 10, 2002
I have no experience with the camelback water thing...but just incase no one answers you...the straw thing..they say it can cause gas drinking through a straw. I had an open RNY 12/10/01 and I have always used a straw..no problem at all..no excess gas, only gas from gassy foods. Try using a straw for a day and see if causes a problem for you. I was just out in my car today (AC does not work to well) and I was getting dehydrated...I do not exercise outside, but plan on starting my rollerskating and biking so I know we MUST keep hydrated! I will be checking back to see what answers you get.
   — Patricia R.

June 10, 2002
WOW! There was no responses when I posted my answer, When I checked to make sure it went through,there was Angela's response!!! Great, I will try it too! Happy Hiking!
   — Patricia R.

June 10, 2002
There great try it!
   — Min W.

June 10, 2002
My mother, a 53 yr-old semi-professional rock-rat/kayaker/etc. has three of these, and swears by them, I've used hers in the past, and love them too! Talk about making it easy to get your liquids, I have to pee every 45 minutes when I use them. *lol*
   — Heather K.