(1) Force fluids. Drink 6-8 quarts of water daily. (2) Observe for dark urine and other symptoms of dehydration. (Headache, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, constipation, etc.) (3) Limit caffeine to 1-2 cups per day. (4) Do not rely on thirst as an indicator of hydration status. NOTE: Eating snow or ice will cause extreme inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth after two days. Warm canteens of water placed in your sleeping bag will give you water to drink in the morning. They will initially act as hot water bottles. (Place them upright, as they tend to leak ...keep bag dry.) e. Health Problems Associated with Excessive Water Loss: (1) Dehydration. (2) Constipation. (3) Hypothermia. (4) Frostbite. (5) Heat Exhaustion. f. The importance of hydration is essential while in a cold weather environment. If these guidelines are followed then complications arising from poor hydration should be prevented. 14. SPECIAL PURPOSE MILITARY RATIONS. RATION Ration, Cold Weather, RCW.
APPLICATION Cold weather operations where weight and freezing are a problem.
MRE Supplement Packet.
Cold weather calorie supplements for the MRE.
Ration, Light Weight, RLW.
Long range patrols, reconnaissance, and assault.
Nutrition Sustainment Module, NSM.
Calorie dense food, bar ration for mission lasting 3-5 days where soldier must carry his own food.
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