The Benefits of Sports Drinks: Are They Needed or Not?

Jim Kelly

The Benefits of Sports Drinks: Are They Needed or Not?

(From the August Issue of Swimming World Magazine)

The sport drink got its start in the 1960s by Dr. Robert Cade. He wanted to create a beverage that would help the Florida Gators football team minimize sluggishness in the heat! Along came Gatorade. Since that moment, the sports drink industry has become a billion dollar business with many more brands entering the market.

COMPOSITION

Sports drinks are largely comprised of carbohydrates, electrolytes and water. The amounts and types of each are what have differed over the years.

TIMING

Sports drinks should be considered if the activity takes longer then 45-60 minutes. It takes 30-45 minutes for the carbohydrates to get into the muscle for energy. Sodium is the main electrolyte that impacts hydration status and helps get the water into the cell.

WHEN TO CONSUME

There are many factors to consider if a sports drink would be of benefit. The main ones are length, duration, intensity, temperature and the amount one sweats. Usually, endurance sports are where most sports drinks are considered, but they can also be useful if someone struggles eating before movement or maximizing fuel and hydration during activity.

WHICH ONES TO CONSIDER

There are many out there. Here are some options to choose from:
• Gatorade®/Gatorade® Organic: Very accessible
• Greater Than®: Uses coconut water as its base and has adequate amounts of sodium
• Infinit: Can customize your own blend
• Liquid IV®: Found in grocery stores
• Precision™ Hydration: Can get your own fueling plan
• Skratch Labs®: Good for sensitive stomachs
• Tailwind®: Found in most running stores

SUMMARY

Sports drinks do have a purpose in sports. They provide quicker-absorbed fuel for the muscles within 45 minutes of ingesting along with important electrolytes, especially sodium. They also help keep the athlete hydrated. When and how often is dependent on many factors, and varies per athlete and situation. Sports drinks are not mandatory, but they can definitely help at appropriate times.