ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the use of sports beverages during sport and activity. It provides the rationale and use of many commonly consumed beverages and the various ingredients they contain as they relate to the maintenance of hydration and performance enhancement. The chapter also presents the guidelines and practical considerations for the use of sports beverages before, during, and after physical activity. The ideal beverage for sport should taste good and meet all of the nutrient, electrolyte, and fluid requirements for the particular phase of activity so that performance is enhanced and all physiological benefits of hydration can be realized. Sports drinks generally contain a carbohydrate source, various electrolytes, and water. Some sports drinks also supply supplemental vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients, such as glycerol, choline, and carbonation. Sports drinks are either hypertonic, isotonic, or hypotonic. Some athletes use fruit juice as their sports drink during exercise.
