It is very important for people with SS to stay very hydrated. If dehydration occurs, this is a sign that the body contains low levels of fluid and when this happens the blood can thicken and create blockages in narrow blood vessels. The muscles affected by blocked blood vessels can cause pain. When flying in airplanes, sometimes altitudes of 5,000ft or higher can also cause your body to lose oxygen and become dehydrated, the cells will start to sickle at that point.
So the bottom line is to drink PLENTY of fluids - fluids help dilute the blood, which reduces the chance of the cells sickling.
Exercising: this is good also, but never over exert yourself.
I truly believe with all the herbs, vitamins, proper foods and nutrients, it all plays a part in keeping the body healthy and well.
Things I give my son for his fluid intake:
Water
Coconut Water - see benefits here: http://www.fyiliving.com/diet/coconut-water-craze-are-the-health-benefits-worth-the-cost/
Lemonade:
made with water, fresh lemons and raw honey
Simply Nutritious drinks,
Mega Green - this contains spirulina, chlorella, green grass and taste
great!
http://www.organickingdom.com/mega-green-juice-3909.html
I stay away from kool aid, high sugary drinks that contains high
fructose corn syrup. Also any juice that contains only 25% juice.