In addition to water, what should be ingested to help prevent dehydration?

Ingesting salty snacks can be beneficial in preventing dehydration because they help retain water in the body. The body needs an adequate balance of electrolytes, which includes sodium, to maintain proper hydration levels. When you consume salty snacks, the sodium content can encourage the body to hold onto water, which can be particularly important during strenuous activities or hot weather where fluid loss is increased through sweat.

While protein bars can provide energy, they do not directly contribute to hydration. Fried foods generally lack water content and can be heavy on the digestive system, potentially causing discomfort during exertion. Soda, despite being liquid, often contains high levels of sugar and caffeine, which can have a diuretic effect and lead to increased fluid loss rather than retention. Thus, consuming salty snacks serves a specific role in promoting hydration by supporting electrolyte balance.