Sports drink

(Clockwise from upper left) Gatorade, Powerade, Prime

Sports drinks, also known as electrolyte drinks, are non-caffeinated functional beverages whose stated purpose is to help athletes replace water, electrolytes, and energy before, during and (especially) after training or competition.

Sports drinks are classified primarily by their osmolarity into hypotonic, isotonic, and hypertonic types. According to an investigative report in 2012, the evidence was limited pertaining to the efficacy of use of commercial sports drinks for sports and fitness performance. Consuming these drinks in excess or when unnecessary may negatively affect health or performance, and some ingredients, such as sugar, may not be suitable for certain conditions. A 2021 systematic review found that hypotonic carbohydrate-electrolyte solutions, formulated with lower sugar and low-to-moderate sodium, are generally most effective at maintaining hydration during continuous exercise, as evidenced by smaller reductions in plasma volume compared with hypertonic drinks, isotonic drinks, and water.

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