Smokin Slow

Had trouble again this week with an extreme dry mouth during a group ride. Had it happen before when pushing really hard in a group faster than me where I really had to work. No amount of water lasts, not sure if it's a result of mouth breathing?
Any thoughts how I can combat this, possibly hard candy or gum??

CharlyAlfaRomeo

How hydrated are you prior to riding? I try and drink at least 1.5 L or water on normal days on top of whatever else I might drink and I aim for 2+ liters on training and racing days.

I still get some dry mouth occasionally if I have to much caffeine or if I'm using any type of medication.

jon c. 

I suck on Shot Bloks energy chews. The margarita ones are especially nice in the summer as they have a touch of salt. I originally bought them as chews, but realized in colder weather (when I have the greatest problem with dry mouth) I could just tuck one in my mouth and it would last for 15 minutes or so, keeping me properly salivating the whole time.

MickeyMaguire

Dry mouth is typical if you are breathing through your mouth and if you cycle in wind about 10 mph with your mouth open. I will finish off two large polar bottles in a ten mile ride in that kind of wind.

OldTryGuy

Back in the 70's I was reading a book about time-trialing and this old, OLD, VERY OLD breathing technique was mentioned.......open mouth slightly, extend lower jaw forward, inhale with some effort so flow of air passes over and around tongue making almost a hissing type noise. This will cause moisture, saliva to form keeping mouth moist, exhaling thru nose rather than mouth helps

johnlp37

Hard candy works nicely.

linnefaulk

I don't bike without gum.

SKunKWerKs

BreatheRight strip and gum.

fastcarbon

I read a book in the 80"s indicating the rider should put the tip of the tongue against the upper front teeth when breathing thru the mouth. I have ridden this way especially on double centuries (which I don't do anymore) and other long rides. It helps a lot especially on those low humidity 10-20% days in SoCal.

Smokin Slow

Some great ideas, like the energy chew idea and possibly a breathing technique to go along with it.

thanks!

BobbyG

I get occasional dry mouth or "cotton mouth" as we used to call it in High School track and field. Our track was next to a factory of some sort and the soot would accumulate on your lips and nasal membrane. I thought that was the worst until we competed in a meet by a Lawry's Seasoned Salt manufacturing plant. I was so hungry and my mouth was watering and yet dry.

I haven't used a camelback or similar hydration system, but would that help?

OldTryGuy

Truth be told, a proper breathing technique is something you always have available and costs you nothing.....

Note, a slightly different technique during the 2.4 mile swim in an Ironman though. A dry mouth is a priority.

BluesDawg

I have chronic dry mouth due to effects of radiation treatments. I try to inhale through my nose and exhale through my mouth. I sip water frequently to keep my mouth and throat moist. Be careful with candy or gum. The sugar can wreak havoc on your teeth.

CB HI

I get dry mouth during sleep at night and after swimming for more than 45 minutes, Biotene really does work.

Fred Smedley

Stop smoking the silly weed......

fietsbob

Its the

John_V 

Shot Block Chews work well. I used to use them but now use GU Chomps and just let them dissolve rather than chew them. One chomp lasts for approximately 12 miles of riding. Letting them dissolve helps you to keep your mouth closed and breathe through your nose rather than your mouth.

slorollin

Atomic Fireballs, don't leave home without them.

BluesDawg

Your dentists are going to love you.