What Constitutes a “Good” Electrolyte Drink?
The constituents of a “good” electrolyte drink need to be absorbed by the body as quickly as possible. In other words, restoration of the body to its proper equilibrium is necessary for the individual to maintain an optimum level of performance. This is done first by a proper energy source. Electrolyte drinks provide this source in the form of carbohydrates (i.e.,glucose and fructose). In keeping with the definition of a “good” electrolyte drink, sucrose is not the preferred source of energy because it is not readily absorbed by the body as are glucose and fructose. In reality, sucrose makes the body work that much harder because the pancreas must first secrete insulin in order to convert the sucrose into a usable form of food energy for the body. The last thing a person wants to do is tax the body when it is in an already depleted state. Electrolyte drinks should also have a balanced level of sodium, potassium, phosphates and other important mineral salts. An effective electrolyte dri
