Gatorade is a sports drink that was specifically designed to replace essential electrolytes and carbohydrates lost through sweating during periods of strenuous activity. It was developed at the University of Florida in 1965 by Dr. Robert Cade and his associates in response to the football coach's request to help his players, who were being adversely affected by the heat during practice and games. The University of Florida team's nickname is the Gators, and so the drink was labeled "Gatorade."
Formula
The Gatorade formula contains 6 percent carbohydrates, or 6 g per 100 mL. The researchers decided upon this formula because the carbohydrate is rapidly absorbed and delivered to the muscles, according to Gatorade FAQs. Another factor that helps Gatorade to be absorbed rapidly is that its osmolality, the amount of particulate matter in a liquid, is close to that of blood. Gatorade has a light flavor that is not overpowering. It contains the electrolytes sodium, potassium and chloride. Although most of the products, except G2, contain high fructose corn syrup, Gatorade states they intend to remove it from all products. The sugars found in Gatorade products are a sucrose-dextrose blend, and sucralose, a no-calorie diet sweetener, in the low calorie varieties. Gatorade does not have any caffeine.
Calories
All nutrition information provided for Gatorade products on their website list values for an 8 oz. serving, or two-thirds of a 12 oz. bottle. The Original G Gatorade drinks have 50 calories per serving, G2 Lo-Cal G2 has 20 calories and G3 Recover has 60 calories. Individual daily calorie requirements vary according to a person's gender, age and activity level. For someone on the average 2,000-calorie per day diet, this would comprise 2.5 percent of the day's calorie needs.
Carbohydrates and Sugar
Gatorade drinks contain carbohydrates as a source of energy and fuel for the body. Each serving of Original G has 14 g of carbohydrates, 14 g of which are sugar, and G3 recover has 7 g of carbohydrate, with 6 g of sugar. G2 Lo-Cal has 5 g of carbohydrate with 5 g of sugar. G2 Natural and G2 Natural Lo-Cal contain the same amount as the regular G2 and G2 Lo-Cal products.
Sodium and Potassium
Sodium and potassium are both electrolytes that Gatorade is used to replenish. Sodium is an essential nutrient that must be ingested in the diet because the body does not manufacture it. It is needed to regulate blood pressure and for proper nerve and muscle functioning. Potassium is needed for the nerve conduction and muscle contraction, by the heart in particular. Each serving of Original G, G2 Lo-Cal G Natural, G2 Natural Lo-Cal provide 110 mg sodium and 30 mg of potassium. G3 recovers provides 120 mg of sodium and 45 mg of potassium.
Protein and Fat
Gatorade products contain no protein and no fat. Both protein and fat are necessary for a complete and healthy diet. Protein is essential to the diet and is found in meats, legumes, dairy and fish. Daily fat intake should focus on the healthier unsaturated fats, such as olive oil and canola oil. MayoClinic.com states 10 to 35 percent of the day's calories should come from protein and daily fats limited to less than 35 percent.
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