Choose these healthy alternatives to sports drinks

Our bodies are composed of 60 percent water and it is vital for the proper functioning of cells and organs to maintain optimal hydration, especially during hot summer months.

Many of us not used to these particularly hot temperatures may end up sweating more than our body can withstand.  Certainly, serious athletes and outdoor exercise enthusiasts must make a special effort to stay hydrated during hot days, especially when competing in a race or triathlon.

The pursuit of the perfect sports beverage has led to the development of familiar brands, such as Gatorade and Powerade.  A quick read of their ingredients reveals that high-fructose corn syrup is one of the top ingredients.  Recently, scientists have found that taking in excess fructose to be a risk factor for developing certain types of cancer.

Pancreatic tumor cells, for example, preferentially use fructose as an energy source.  In addition, the process of refining corn syrup to its high-fructose cousin involves mercury, a known toxic metal, of which traces remain in the final product.  The long-term “healthiness” of these drinks, which are used regularly by athletes, has come into question.

We know from studying the effects of dysentery in Africa, that water alone is not enough to hydrate the body from severe fluid loss. Our bodies transport water most efficiently in conjunction with salt and glucose and adding salt and sugar to water helps get it into the tissues that need it most.  The perfect re-hydration beverage should have a combination of both, along with magnesium and potassium to help prevent muscle cramping.

Several studies have shown that re-hydrating the body with fresh coconut water is just as potent at replenishing cellular hydration as the leading sports drinks.^{1 2}

Fresh coconut water is a great natural alternative, because it is naturally high in electrolytes and potassium, without the high fructose corn syrup.  Of course, you should also drink plenty of water, as it is what the body is mostly made of; however, to replenish lost electrolytes from sweat, coconut water seems like a good, natural alternative.

Besides drinking plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day, you can stay hydrated by eating fruits and vegetables that have a natural high water content.  Watermelon is 92 percent water and ranks among the top water-rich foods available.  Start your day by eating watermelon for breakfast and it will do more than help keep you hydrated.

This delectable fruit is a good source of vitamins A, C and B, potassium and the powerful anti-oxidant lycopene, which supports prostate health. Watermelon also is lower in calories than other fruit, making chilled watermelon a great, nutrient-rich snack for your workouts