Difference Between Sports Drinks and Energy Drinks

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A sports drink is a beverage that contains carbohydrates and other supplements to help replenish fluids and nutrients used during vigorous exercise Types of sports drink: Isotonic Fluid - Electrolytes and 6-8% carbohydrate Quickly replaces fluids lost by sweating and supplies a boost of carbohydrate; choice for most athletes Hypotonic Fluids - Electrolytes and a low level of carbohydrate quickly replaces fluids lost by sweating. Suitable for athletes who need fluid without the boost of carbohydrate such as jockeys and gymnasts. Hypertonic - High level of carbohydrate, used to supplement daily carbohydrate intake normally after exercise to top up muscle glycogen stores. Suitable for ultra distance events where high levels of energy are required and hypertonic drinks can be taken during exercise to meet the energy requirements; If used during exercise, hypertonic drinks need to be used in conjunction with Isotonic drinks to replace fluids. How fast the body absorbs the sports drink depends on the carbohydrate level and electrolyte level. The higher the carbohydrate rate, the slower the rate of stomach emptying. Sodium and potassium in a drink will reduce urine output and enables the fluid to empty quickly from the stomach, promotes absorption from the intestine and encourages fluid retention. Sports drinks are harmful and corrosive for teeth. Dr. Mercola also says that less than 1% of situations in which people drink sports drinks are a beneficial use for these products. Most people who drink sports energy drinks would be better off drinking water instead. In terms of exercise and replenishing the body’ssystem, the use of sports drinks is only warranted after at least 45 minutes of strenuous cardiovascular or aerobic activity, such as running, jogging or playing a fast-paced sport. Sports drinks are full of vitamins and minerals, but most

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