Rating Thirst-Quenching Sports Drinks Sports-drink manufacturers
have made a science of finding just the right concoction to
replenish bodily fluids lost during exercise. Most sports drinks
consist of water, carbohydrates in the form of sugar, and small
amounts of electrolytes, which are minerals such as sodium and
potassium that encourage quick replenishment of fluids lost
during exercise. Manufacturers often claim that their special
balance of carbohydrates and sodium will stimulate you to drink
a lot of fluids, help you to absorb fluids, and provide an
energy boost. Sports drinks fall into two main categories: High-
carbohydrate sports drinks. These usually contain at least 10
percent carbohydrates. These are meant to be used before, not
during, exercise. Thirst-quenching and hydrating sports drinks.
These are meant to be used during and after exercise. These
usually contain 4 to 9 percent carbohydrates, making them low-
carb drinks. The sodium levels range from 10 to 25 mmol/L,
relatively low but safe. Thes