While we’re all feeling the effects of the summer heat lately, there is one question that comes up quite often. Do I need a sports drink to replenish the nutrients lost in the heat?
Sports drinks have become the drink of choice for many, from athletes to couch potatoes. With a name like “sports drink” it can almost make us feel like an athlete just by drinking it. What could be the harm in drinking something related to sports, that has all these added nutrients? Let’s take a look at what we really need to function in this heat.
Sports drinks have added minerals, which are also called electrolytes, that can be depleted when performing extreme physical activity or working outside for hours in high heat. But along with these nutrients which consist of potassium and sodium are a range of ingredients from high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, and other artificial ingredients. The bottom line, high calories and high sugar.
Are the added calories, ingredients, and sugar doing more harm than good? If you’re involved in sports or intense physical activity out in the heat for more than 1-2 hours a day, then they can help you replenish some lost nutrients. But if you are the average person working out about an hour a day and drinking plenty of water, this is the only nutrient your body may need.
Water is an essential nutrient to our bodies containing small amounts of sodium (2 – 7 mg) in both tap and bottled water. Studies have shown that unless you are engaging in intense physical activity for more than 1-2 hours a day in extreme heat, water can provide proper hydration to maintain electrolytes naturally and restore muscle glycogen after exercise while increasing your performance. Waters other benefits; helps promote clear thinking, can be naturally energizing, and so refreshing. Just keep in mind the average daily requirements of approximately 9 glasses for women and 11 glasses for men per day. And for the fussy drinkers in your family that need flavor, add a slice of fresh orange, lemon, or lime to your glass and enjoy!
