Gatorade is one of the leading fitness drinks in the industry and the official sports drink of Major League Baseball, the National Football League, Major League Soccer and USA Basketball as of 2008. It was originally developed by researchers in 1965 at the University of Florida to combat fatigue due to high temperatures during summer practices. Its blend of sodium, potassium, water, phosphate and lemon juice is said to have led the Florida Gators to their first national championship.
Hydration
Gatorade is prominently known as a "thirst quencher" because of its powers to rehydrate the body. Its combination of sodium and potassium salts gives athletes an edge, restoring electrolytes lost during perspiration. Without these chemical substances, the body would lose excess water, cell functioning would shut down, and the athlete would experience confusion and lethargy. Most importantly, Gatorade is 94% water. Thus, every time you drink it, you replenish your reserves.
Energy
Another key ingredient of Gatorade is sugar. Although nutritionists generally discourage drinking beverages made from high fructose corn syrup, sometimes the body requires it. Heavy exertion can wear down glucose levels, depleting the body of energy and weakening athletic performance. Gatorade overcomes this by boosting energy with a healthy serving of carbohydrates.
Flavor
Aside from rehydrating the body and providing energy, Gatorade tastes good. With its wide variety of flavors including grape, key-lime, strawberry, blueberry, and orange, you are bound to find something you like. Furthermore, Gatorade provides more nutrients than soda and has more zest than water. With many kids preferring it, it's an easy party substitute for punch.
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