While you work out, you lose more than water when you sweat. You also lose electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, which Gatorade helps replenish. Along with those electrolytes, Gatorade supplies carbohydrates to fuel you through particularly difficult or long workouts. If you are planning a prolonged workout, or a workout in extreme heat or humidity, you should consider drinking Gatorade as opposed to plain water.
Dehydration
When you sweat, you lose water that is essential to the functioning of your body. According to Vanderbilt University, the 6 percent carbohydrate and salt solution present in Gatorade provides for optimal fluid absorption, preventing dehydration. Vanderbilt University also states that once you are dehydrated, the sodium present in Gatorade helps to rapidly rehydrate your body by promoting homeostasis, or balance in your body. Gatorade also does not contain caffeine, which increases urine production, causing further dehydration. The absence of caffeine in Gatorade ensures that it will not act as a diuretic. Rather, it will help reverse dehydration.
Hyponatremia
Hyponatremia is caused by consuming too much of any form of fluid, according to Coolrunning.com. For the most part, distance and endurance athletes, such as marathon runners or Ironman competitors, are most at risk for developing this state of extreme sodium depletion. When you over-drink before, during or after your race, you can increase plasma levels in your blood to the point that sodium is in extremely low concentrations. Gatorade contains enough sodium to help you combat this serious, life-threatening condition.
Improved Performance
For athletes, especially elite athletes, Gatorade has been shown to improve performance when it is consumed during practice or competition. Dr. Edward E. Coyle of the Gatorade Sport Science Institute states that carbohydrates are needed during strenuous exercise to keep blood glucose levels sufficient, as well as maintaining energy levels from the breakdown of muscle glycogen. The carbohydrates contained in Gatorade are sufficient for maintaining these important sugars, which provide energy to your body.
Gastric Distress
You may find it difficult to consume the necessary amount of fluid needed to stay hydrated if you are working out for more than an hour, as it may cause gastric discomfort, according to Dr. Coyle. Particularly if you are competing, the amount of fluid necessary to maintain healthy hydration may weigh you down, so to speak, and cause your race times to increase. Also, consuming too many carbohydrates during exercise can cause stomach upset, as you will not be able to empty your gut fast enough.
Calories
If you are not an athlete, and do not plan to exercise for more than an hour, Gatorade is not recommended. The same ingredients that help to maintain your performance levels contain calories, says Coyle. If you are not an athlete, you will not need to consume extra electrolytes or carbohydrates, as you will not lose a significant amount of nutrients over the course of your workout. If you are looking to increase your caloric deficit, Gatorade may thwart your attempts to lose weight.
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