Is Gatorade Actually Effective At Hydrating You?

When it's not being poured onto a winning team's coach, Gatorade is enjoyed by both professional athletes and everyday people around the world. This sports drink was first developed in 1965 at the University of Florida, and while some flavors are better than others, they are all intended to provide optimal hydration after intense physical activity. One might assume that Gatorade's hydrating capabilities is just part of their advertising, but it actually is effective at hydrating you, especially after a workout.

Gatorade will not only rehydrate you, it will also replace some of the vital nutrients lost during exercise. When we exercise, we lose fluids and electrolytes (which include various minerals essential to our bodies such as sodium and calcium) due to sweating. We also lose glycogen, a sort of sugar that our bodies use to power activity, and that can be restored with carbohydrates in food or drink. Drinking Gatorade during or after a workout will hydrate you while also replenishing your body with carbs and electrolytes.

The extra nutrients in Gatorade also make it a good option if you're sick or recovering from a hangover, but it's not always the best choice for day-to-day hydration. If you're not engaging in intense exercise, water is usually the best drink option as the extra carbs and sugar in Gatorade aren't necessary. However, if you are exercising intensely for a long period of time, especially if you're in a hot climate, Gatorade can help replace any lost electrolytes and help power the rest of your work out.

Everyone is different, so it's best to pay attention to your own body and habits when deciding if Gatorade is the right choice for you. For example, if you sweat more than the average person during a workout, it's possible for you to get dehydrated more quickly, so Gatorade might be a good option. If you're unsure if you need extra electrolytes, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor or a nutrition expert.

Dehydration can lead to serious issues like headaches, muscle cramps, and fatigue, so it's important to choose a beverage that will keep you feeling hydrated and healthy. Whether you buy it from the store or make your own, regardless of your activity level, Gatorade will indeed quench your thirst.