Water Versus Gatorade

The biggest problem with having too much choice is running into paralysis by analysis. Choosing something as simple as what to drink before, during, and after a run is a perfect example. Google “what to drink for a run” and you’ll get 420 million results. So what’s the correct answer? In this post, we’ll examine the facts about proper hydration and attempt to settle the debate of water versus Gatorade


Why is Hydration Important?

As Camelback says, Hydrate or Die. Over 60% of a human’s body weight is comprised of water. Since every cell, organ, and tissue in our bodies need water to function properly, hydration is essential for survival. Our bodies use water to keep joints lubricated, remove waste, regulate temperature, and keep organs functioning properly. Even when not exercising at all, health experts recommend drinking 64 ounces of water per day.

Water versus Gatorade score: Water 1....Gatorade 0


How much should I drink while exercising?

The answer to that depends on how long you plan to exercise. A good rule a thumb is to consume one cup (8 ounces) of fluids per 20 minutes of exercise. As it pertains to running, a key thing to remember is that fluid absorption is just as important as fluid replacement. If planning to run for less than an hour, water will accomplish both objectives. If running for more than an hour, fluid absorption and providing energy to your muscles both become vitally important. The best way to accomplish this is to provide your body with sodium (for fluid absorption) and carbohydrates (for energy). Gatorade contains both. Because the goal is to qualify for Boston Marathons, I’ll give the point to Gatorade. For more on this topic, check out the following article on proper hydration: http://www.healthdiscovery.net/articles/drink_up.htm

Water versus Gatorade score: Water 1…..Gatorade 1


How much should I drink during recovery?

When it comes to recovery, here’s the bottom line: replace all the fluid you’ve lost during your workout. If you don’t currently weigh yourself before and after your runs, start doing so. One pound of weight loss equals one pint (about 16 ounces) of water loss. So, if you lose three pounds during your run, you should drink roughly 48 ounces of fluid. My suggestion here is to drink what you like. Anything that encourages you to drink more is doing its job in this category. Because Gatorade contains carbohydrates and sugars (and in my opinion, tastes better than water), it gets the nod over water in terms of replacing weight lost during a run. However, knowing that some people use running as their primary weight loss program and don’t want to consume carbs and sugar after their workout, I’ll call it a tie in this category. Check out the following article for another take on this subject: http://running.about.com/od/nutritionandhydration/a/hydration101.htm

Water versus Gatorade final score: Water 2…Gatorade 2

My take:

The question of whether to drink water or Gatorade may be flawed. After all, Gatorade is made of mostly water. That being said, my take is that runners need both. When the body sweats, it loses more than just water. It loses salt, potassium, sugar and electrolytes. My personal method is to drink water throughout the day to prepare for my runs and exercise. When running for an hour or more, I prefer to carry a bottle of Gatorade that is cut by 25% with water. After the run, it’s all Gatorade for me. I personally am looking to gain back the lost weight quickly and I prefer the taste of Gatorade over water. Use the facts discussed in this post and figure out which combination works best for you.