Gatorade is a popular energy or sports drink that offers a variety of flavors and formulas. One popular Gatorade drink for weightlifters, bodybuilders and serious sports enthusiasts is Gatorade Endurance, a drink supplement commonly sold in powder form. This formula offers four pre-measured pouches to be mixed with 32 oz of water. Designed as a thirst quencher, it is favored for replacing fluids and electrolytes lost through intense exercise or activity. Ingredients vary by product.
Sugar
Gatorade Endurance contains about 12 to 14 grams sugar, which helps replace energy for those engaged in intense workouts or activities. Gatorade Endurance Formula contains a mixture of sucrose, fructose and glucose sugars. Sugars, regardless of their source, offer about 4 calories per gram. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the body needs sugar for energy. Sugars broken down into glucose are the only type of sugar the brain and red blood cells can utilize for energy.
Potassium
Roughly 80 to 90 milligrams potassium are offered in each serving size of Gatorade Endurance powdered packets when mixed with 32 oz. water. Potassium is necessary for muscle control as well as nerve functions, according to the Colorado State University Extension fact sheet on potassium and health.
Carbohydrates
About 13g to 14g carbohydrates are available in pre-measured packets of Gatorade Endurance Lemon-Lime formula. Carbohydrates break down into simple sugars that provide fuel or energy for the body. Carbohydrates offer endurance and help prevent fatigue because carbohydrates are stored as glycogen in the muscles. Adequate intake of carbohydrates in Gatorade Endurance helps maintain blood sugar or blood glucose levels for exercise or activity that lasts longer than an hour. Northwestern Health Sciences University states that the more intense or lengthy your exercise activities, the more carbohydrates you need for sustained energy.
Sodium
Each packet of Gatorade Endurance contains approximately 170 to 200 mg sodium. Sodium, or salt, helps prevent cramping during workouts. According to the Department of Health and Human Performance at Iowa State University article written by Rick Sharp, M.D., sodium is essential for what is known as fluid homeostasis during exercise, or balance of chemicals, temperature and functions in the body.
Electrolytes
The product manufacturer claims that Gatorade Endurance contains five different electrolytes, which help to replenish and rejuvenate muscles following an intense workout. Electrolytes such as magnesium (6 mg) , calcium (6 mg) and chloride (90 mg) are also offered in Gatorade Endurance, which help to revive tired and overworked muscles drained of energy through intense activity.
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