Was the death caused by an insufficient attention to electrolyte ingestion, or drinking to a schedule rather than to thirst? "Swelling of the brain is the cause of death," said Professor Leo Latasch, head of the medical emergency team of the Gesundheitsamt in Frankfurt, and it was likely caused by insufficient salt intake while racing in unusually hot conditions. According to Professor Latasch, the athlete drank mostly water during the race and did not take in enough minerals.