Choosing the Right Drink: Water or Sports Drinks for Hydration?
Staying hydrated is essential, but what’s the best choice for you? Parade shares insights from dietitians on when to opt for water or sports drinks.
In most cases, water is the winner. If you’re casually exercising or staying fit, water is perfect. However, for intense workouts lasting over 60 minutes, hot climates, or high-intensity training, sports drinks with electrolytes can be beneficial.
Sports drinks, designed to replenish fluids and electrolytes, are recommended during extended workouts or in hot and humid conditions. If you sweat a lot or exercise at high altitudes, where you lose more fluids, sports drinks can help.
These drinks typically include carbohydrates, sodium, potassium, chloride, and flavorings. However, some may contain additives like artificial colorings or preservatives. It’s crucial to check labels for necessary ingredients.
But beware, sports drinks are not an everyday solution. For weight management or health conditions like heart disease and diabetes, they may not be suitable due to added sugars and calories. Regular consumption could contribute to health issues.
As for Gatorade, it’s not superior to water. While beneficial for athletes when used strategically, drinking it all day can lead to unnecessary calorie intake. Sports drinks also might help when recovering from sickness and dehydration.
In a nutshell, water remains the top choice for daily hydration. Sports drinks are like a tool—they’re effective when used right, but not for constant use. Always consult with your doctor before making significant dietary changes.
For more details, check out the original article on Parade’s website.
https://parade.com/health/water-vs-sports-drinks-better-for-hydration