Hypertonic Drinks: What Are They And When Should You Drink Them?
The world of sports drinks can be confusing. However, each one of them fulfills a specific role. For example, hypertonic drinks, rather than giving you super special powers, are designed to give you energy and replenish lost electrolytes on the go.
Body fluids maintain a perfect balance of electrolytes and water both inside and outside the cell. The BMJ magazine explains that, when this balance is broken, dehydration or hyperhydration states can be reached that endanger the athlete’s health.
Drinks are classified according to their concentration of liquids and solids in relation to the human body. Hypertonic drinks offer a higher concentration of water, sugars and salts than blood. They are advantageous for certain types of exercises, but certain care must be taken during their administration. Keep reading!
When are hypertonic drinks used?
Hypertonic drinks are formulated to recharge the energy-storing carbohydrate in the liver and muscles, called “glycogen.” They can also maintain possible anabolism and fluid and electrolyte balance. Due to their hypertonic characteristics, they can even be added with proteins.
According to a study in the Journal of Applied Physiology , they are used as recovery drinks after intense exercise at low temperatures. Glycogen is limited, but can be saved by maintaining blood sugar through the supply of glucose.
Despite having a slow absorption rate, it helps replenish glycogen stores. The body tends to absorb liquids faster than solid foods.
Research explains that adding carbohydrates to the drink and consuming it at a rate of 1 gram per minute reduces the use of glycogen stored in the liver by 30%. For this reason, in exercise exercises, the carbohydrates in energy drinks improve the athlete’s performance.
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