CALISTOGA, Calif., Aug. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pocari Sweat, Japan’s iconic electrolyte drink designed to support hydration and recovery, today unveiled findings from its inaugural State of Sweat Index. The survey of 700 high-heat workers in Texas and California (two regions that frequently experience excessive heat) revealed that workplace dehydration is a pervasive issue and that many may not be using the most effective hydration.
The survey found that 83% of workers have regularly experienced at least one potentially harmful dehydration symptom, such as headaches, fatigue, or dizziness/light-headedness, any of which may lead to workplace accidents and injuries. Additionally, 25% of all respondents have sought medical treatment for heat or dehydration-related illnesses within the past five years. This number increased amongst respondents from Los Angeles and Dallas, with approximately one in three receiving medical treatment.
The survey also highlighted a gap in hydration practices: while consuming water is the most common (59%), only 33% opt for electrolyte beverages as a primary choice. This suggests that a significant number of workers facing intense heat may not be adequately replenishing crucial electrolytes lost through sweat. This habit could lead to even wider dehydration-related health problems.
“Based on our survey, dehydration is common among those who work in high-heat environments,” said Motoyuki Sakiyama, general manager, Pocari Sweat USA. “Workers want to stay hydrated, but data from the Pocari Sweat State of Sweat Index shows an opportunity to optimize these efforts. The sheer number experiencing symptoms and work interruptions, despite drinking water, underscores the vital role of electrolytes. It’s not just about drinking more; it’s about replacing what the body loses through sweat, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium.”
The Heavy Toll of Inadequate Hydration
Extreme heat poses severe health risks, from heat exhaustion to heatstroke, and can worsen chronic health conditions, such as heart and lung diseases. This is especially true in areas like Austin, where 40% of days in 2024 saw temperatures at or above 90°.1 Working hard in those temperatures can lead the body to lose two liters of sweat an hour, and for those wearing personal protective equipment, the number can increase to three to four …