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Sports drinks provide carbohydrates and electrolytes that are not found in water. They contain easily absorbed carbohydrates, and have about half the calories of fruit juices. They may also contain herbs and supplements purported to enhance energy and boost weight loss. Originally designed for athletes, sports drinks are useful for any sporting or athletic event, or as an energy-boosting beverage enjoyed anytime.
Sports drinks are available in cans and bottles, in a variety of flavors. Natural sports drinks with natural sweeteners, flavors, and colors, are also available.
Use sports drinks instead of soda. Enjoy with an apple, pear, or banana for a fast snack.
Sports drink, 8 oz. (240mL)
Calories: 50
Protein: 0.0g
Carbohydrate: 14g
Total Fat: 0.0g
Fiber: 0.0g
Nutritional content varies among drinks.
Water is the most abundant substance in the human body and is essential for normal physiological function. Water loss due to sweating during exercise can result in decreased performance and other problems. Fluids should be ingested prior to, during, and after exercise—especially under extreme conditions such as climate, exercise intensity, and exercise duration. Approximately two glasses of fluid should be consumed two hours before exercise and at regular intervals during exercise; fluid should be cool, not cold (59°–72°F [15°–22.2°C]). Flavored sports drinks containing electrolytes are not necessary for fluid replacement during brief periods of exercise, but they may be more effective in encouraging the athlete to drink frequently and in larger amounts.
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The information presented in Foodnotes is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of U.S. registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2005.