Consider what a sports drink should do for your body:
- Stimulate fluid absorption
- Provide carbohydrate energy to muscles
- Decrease or prevent muscle soreness, cramps and fatigue
- Replenish your body’s electrolytes
Other things to consider
- Carbohydrates: Are turned into fuel by your muscles - the more, the better
- Sodium chloride, citrate or bicarbonate: Components of electrolytes, which are essential for metabolizing carbs and keeping your body hydrated, especially when sweating
- Potassium: Listed as monopotassium phosphate, l-lactate, or dipotassium phosphate on a label, these components of electrolytes help keep your body hydrated, especially while sweating
- Flavor: Sports and energy drinks come in a huge variety of flavor options - choosing your favorite often means staying hydrated feels like a fun treat
Read full article: How to Choose Sports and Energy Drinks