Are sports drinks necessary to accompany your exercise routine?
When it comes to hydration and physical performance, many people immediately consider sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, the best option. While these brands may seem like the ideal choice considering the extensive recognition and popularity they receive, they are not always the best choice. To start, these drinks typically contain a significant amount of simple carbohydrates. We do recognize carbohydrates as a vital energy source; however, it is typically recommended to consume a meal containing carbohydrates 1 to 3 hours prior to your exercise.¹ This allows the body to prioritize its energy toward your workout, rather than digestion. At this point, many individuals will think, “Well if sugar is the issue, why not buy the reduced sugar or sugar-free options that companies offer.” The problem with these products is the fact that companies will replace the sugar with artificial sweeteners, usually sucralose, to reduce the carbohydrates without losing taste. Although most ar...