Sports Drinks
Sports drinks are a functional beverage product that help people hydrate before, during and after vigorous exercise. Sports drinks can provide nutrients and quickly replenish electrolytes and carbohydrates lost during physical activity or exposure to high temperatures.
Ingredients
Sports drinks may contain the following ingredients:
Potassium and Sodium
Types of electrolytes, which are salts that conduct electricity and are found throughout our bodies. Electrolytes can be lost through sweat during exercise or overheating.
Carbohydrates
The main energy source in these beverages. These include sweeteners such as sugar, honey, juices and high-fructose corn syrup.
Vitamins
Essential nutrients required for regular metabolic reactions in the body.
Water
Base of sports drinks.
Low-calorie sweeteners
These are used in place of full-calorie sweeteners to add sweetness with fewer calories. The low-calorie sweeteners typically used in beverages in Canada are: acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), aspartame, sucralose, and stevia.
Citric Acid
A flavouring agent that imparts tartness
Flavours
Commonly used in many sports drinks to enhance taste.