Sports drinks like Gatorade Rain fuel your body through tough workouts and help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, mineral ions in the blood that are vital to normal function of organs and bodily systems., Gatorade Rain offers a line of special flavors for those who don't enjoy the taste of standard Gatorade. Before bringing along a bottle of sports drink to your next game or practice, balance your energy, performance and nutritional needs to ensure these drinks are the best choice for your body.
Nutritional Data
A single 8 oz. serving of Gatorade Rain contains 50 calories and 0 grams of fat, according to the Gatorade website. Each serving also offers 110 mg of sodium and 14 grams of sugar. Gatorade Rain contains no protein, fiber or vitamins.
Diet Version
If 50 calories and 14 grams of sugar is too much for your current diet plan, consider G2, a diet version of the popular Gatorade sports drinks. According to the company website, G2 contains just 20 calories, 5 grams of sugar and 110 mg of sodium in each 8 oz. serving. This product provides the same hydration benefits and electrolytes of original Gatorade Rain, which can help you perform your best throughout extended workouts.
Nutritional Benefits
According to a study published in the January 2000 "Journal of Exercise and Sports Science Reviews," you lose 900 to 1,400 mg of sodium for every liter of sweat. The sodium and fluids in Gatorade Rain help to restore lost sodium and prevent the onset of hyponatemia, or dehydration. In addition, drinks containing 4 to 8 percent sugar help athletes maximize performance. Gatorade Rain contains 14 g sugar, putting it right in the middle of the recommended range.
Expert Insight
Many experts disagree on the benefits of sports drinks compared to plain water. Iowa State University Extension recommends consuming 15 to 30 grams of carbs for every 30 minutes of exercise, but only if you're working out for more than 90 minutes. An 8-oz. serving of Gatorade Rain every half hour would fulfill this requirement, but so would a piece of fruit or an energy bar.
The The President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition recommends replacing lost electrolytes if you plan to workout for more than two hours. While water is fine for shorter workouts, the electrolytes in Gatorade Rain may help you perform more effectively during a longer workout.
Where to Find It
Gatorade originally sold its line of Rain drinks under the Rain brand name. Gatorade now sells the entire line of Rain drinks under the Gatorade Performance 02 brand. Look for bottles with this brand, then find those marked with "Rain" and your favorite flavor.
References
- Iowa State University Extension: Role of Carbohydrates
- University of Washington: Gatorade Vs. Powerade
- The President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition:Frequently Asked Questions About Sports Nutrition
- Journal of Exercise and Sports Science Review; Rehydration and Recovery of Fluid Balance After Exercise; January 2000
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