Care packages can offer sustenance and a sense of home to overseas troops.
Having a loved one in the military can severely test your heart, mind and soul. Long separations are difficult, and the stress of worrying over a loved one's well-being can be overwhelming. A thoughtful care package can go a long way toward soothing the spirit of both a soldier and family member back at home.
Beef Jerky
Soldiering under arid conditions can result in dehydration.
Beef jerky is preserved meat that contains both salt and some form of sugar. Soldiers will appreciate the meaty flavor and, at the same time, the salt and sugar helps keep the body in electrolyte balance. Many soldiers are in desert-like conditions, where constant perspiration in the heat can lead to dehydration. At times, soldiers have only limited access to fresh drinking water. Electrolyte levels in the body change under such conditions, so restoring electrolyte balance is critical to maintaining muscle coordination, heart function, fluid absorption and excretion, nerve function and concentration, according to NephrologyChannel.com.
Powdered Electrolyte Drink
Pack powdered electrolyte drink products in your care package as another way to help a soldier maintain physical and mental well-being. Many powdered electrolyte drink products, such as those manufactured by G2 and Clif Bar, are readily available in retail outlets. Other brands of powdered drinks, such as Emergen-C, are sold at natural food and health food stores. Soldiers can take many of these powdered products without water, which can be scarce in combat areas.
Eye Wash
Eyewash can help protect a soldier's eye health.
In dry, dusty regions, it is critical to keep the eyes well-hydrated and free of debris. This is even more important in situations where servicemembers are sleep-derived or otherwise fatigued. Eye wash products, such as those produced by Bausch & Lomb or Ocu-Fresh, and even eye drops from makers such as Visine can go a long way toward keeping soldiers' eyes in optimal condition.
Sunscreen
Sun protection is a must, especially in desert-like climes.
Sunscreen, in addition to offering sun protection, can also help keep soldiers' skin hydrated. You can find sunscreen products for the face, the body or both. At the low-cost end are store brands from such retailers as Walgreen's. At the upper end of the spectrum are pricey department-store brands. Many sunscreen formulations include moisturizing ingredients to complement the sun-protective agents. You will likely want to find a high-SPF (Sun Protection Factor) product, as soldiers are often exposed to the elements for long periods. Moreover, even the light fragrance of a sunscreen product can be a source of solace to a weary, homesick servicemember.
Tags: care package, drink products, electrolyte balance, electrolyte drink, electrolyte drink products, long toward