The nutritional needs of an active individual differ from those of the average population. During activity, essential electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, as well as nutrients such as carbohydrates are lost in our sweat. After a training session, it is important to refuel your body as soon as possible. Often, one of the quickest and most convenient ways to start refueling is to grab a sports drink. However, not all sports drinks are created equally. When choosing a post-exercise beverage, look for drinks that consist of around 6-8% carbohydrates, and contain roughly 500-700mg of sodium and 80-200 mg of potassium per liter. Some brands include Gatorade™, Powerade™, eLoad™, or Accelerade™.
Sports drinks are helpful:
- Before exercise as extra fuel
- During activities lasting longer than 60 minutes of continuous exercise
- During and in-between multiple events (i.e. tournaments, competitions)
- After exercise to help replenish carbohydrates, electrolytes, and fluids
Sport drinks are not needed for:
- Casual consumption not related to exercising
- Physical activities lasting less than 60 minutes of steady exercise (i.e. community hockey game)
At Craven SPORT Services we understand the importance of recovery to keep your mind and body healthy and active. We encourage our clients to “train smarter to play harder” and are equipped with a knowledgeable staff of physical therapists, as well as a nutritionist, who are willing and available to assist you along the way and keep you active for life!
Credit: Craven Sport Services
Reference:
Sport Nutrition Advisory Committee (SNAC) on-line presented by the Coaching Association of Canada.
