Which is best: water or sports drinks?
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Reply Victoria Cid Mar 6 4:37pmManage Discussion by Victoria
The debate between water and sports drinks is fascinating. What is the better option for hydration? In this discussion post I’ll be talking about the benefits of each and ideally which one is the better choice.
Water and sports drinks are great options to keep the body hydrated. Water is readily available and in some cases free of charge. It has no calories or any additives and water is crucial for maintaining bodily functions including temperature regulation and joint lubrication (Gundersen, 2024). Water is found in every body cell and is vital for life. Sport drinks contain carbohydrates and electrolytes which are needed for performance. It helps maintain the body’s electrolyte balance, gives energy due to its sugar additives and contains sodium which helps the body retain water and keeps the body from losing too much fluid (Gundersen, 2024).
But these “hydration” additives are also bad. Most sport drinks contain carbohydrates in the form of high levels of sugar, and with overconsumption it can cause unwanted weight gain. This weight gain can lead to other complications like obesity, cardiovascular disease or diabetes. The sugar gives fast energy but the energy doesn’t last a while and someone might become worn out after an intense activity. Consumption of too much sugar can also cause a fluid imbalance and can cause frequent urination and lead to dehydration (Muschealth, 2024). So the bottom line is if you want to increase fluid intake and stay hydrated the best choice is water. Sports drinks are great for when you are going to have a high intensity workout or if you’re in hot weather and would like to replenish your electrolytes but water is always the better choice. Water is the best for hydration.
“Hydration: Water versus Everyone Else.” Muschealth.org, 2024, advance.muschealth.org/library/2023/april/hydration-and-sportsLinks to an external site..
“Water or Electrolyte Drinks: What’s Better for Athletes?” Gundersen Health System, 31 July 2024, www.gundersenhealth.org/health-wellness/eat-move/water-or-electrolyte-drinks-whats-better-for-athletes.
