WHY SHOULD ATHLETES DRINK SPORTS DRINKS?

The simple answer is: to rapidly replace the fluids and electrolytes lost through sweat, and provide energy for active muscles. Sweating is your body’s way of cooling down, but dehydration is the penalty we pay for this. Drinking sports drinks during physical activity can reduce dehydration to zero and that’s best for how an athlete feels and performs. Physical activity also increases our need for the carbohydrate energy that some sports drinks provide. As a result, we can exercise longer and harder.
What should good formulated sports drinks contain?

• Carbohydrates for optimum fluid absorption and energy. Appropriate mixtures include sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Avoid drinks containing only fructose--too much slows fluid absorption and causes abdominal cramps;
• Sodium, which stimulates fluid absorption, maintains the desire to drink, helps the body retain water, and enhances taste. Taste preferences change during and after exercise, such that we prefer slightly "salty" beverages.
• No carbonation, which can cause stomach discomfort.
• No caffeine, which can promote dehydration.

Source: Gatorade Sport Science Institute (www.gssiweb.com)