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Sports Drinks
While I strongly advise against overconsumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, BODYARMOR is the lesser evil here among calorically sweetened sports drinks. Powerade should be avoided due to its high HFCS content, and while Gatorade is better in that manner, I give BODYARMOR a slight edge due to its lack of artificial dyes.
Pros: Taste, Convenience
Cons: Cost, Caloric Content
The Standard Option: BODYARMOR
The Low-Calorie Option: G FIT
G FIT is my go-to off-the-shelf sports drink. Sweetened with Stevia and watermelon juice, G FIT can supply electrolytes without the additional calories, artificial sweeteners or dyes.
Pros: Caloric Content, Taste
Cons: Cost
The Budget Option: Homemade Sports Drink
Constantly purchasing off-the-shelf sports drinks can get expensive. Luckily, electrolyte-replenishing beverages are extremely easy to make at home. Just mix together:
20 oz water
1 TBSP lemon juice
1/4 TSP Salt
1/4 TSP Light Salt
2 Packets Stevia with Dextrose
Pros: Price, Caloric Content
Cons: Prep Time
Hydration is an essential part of any fitness regimen. While regular old water can suffice for most, sports drinks are recommended for those who undergo high-intensity workouts for upwards of an hour, and are also beneficial for those who experience frequent loose stools in order to replace sodium, potassium, and chloride losses.
However, not all sports drinks are created equal, especially for those of us with IBS. Some contain ingredients that may exacerbate IBS symptoms or possibly contribute to dysbiosis in the gut. Additionally, these drinks tend to be heavily sweetened, which can not only cause GI distress, but also offset some progress for those who are looking to cut down on calories.
