What is typically recommended for a diver to monitor their hydration status?

Monitoring hydration status is crucial for divers to ensure optimal physical performance and reduce the risk of decompression sickness. Checking urine color before diving serves as a practical and effective method to gauge hydration levels. When a diver is well-hydrated, their urine is usually light in color, generally resembling pale straw or lemonade. Darker urine indicates a higher concentration of waste products, which often signifies dehydration.

This method is advantageous because it integrates easily into a pre-dive routine, allowing divers to assess their hydration without needing advanced equipment or extensive time commitments. It also provides immediate visual feedback, which can be more reliable than waiting until the experience of thirst or interpreting other physical cues. Staying hydrated helps maintain blood viscosity, cardiovascular function, and overall fitness while diving, making this a sensible recommendation for divers concerned with their health and performance underwater.