Why Do Sports Drinks Replace Water?

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Water has always been the most natural way to replenish one’s body after exercising or just in general. There have always been compelling arguments about whether or not sports drinks can actually replace water. The sources presented show the benefits of each and just how helpful they can be when used correctly. For example, Source A explains how water should be drunk for better fluid replacement, workouts under 60 minutes, and better circulation of oxygen and nutrients, while sport drinks for replacing electrolytes/carbohydrates, workouts longer than 60 minutes, and if one sweats profusely. In my case, I would not include sports drinks to be a part of my diet for everyday life.
Generally, water will always be the healthiest option over sports drinks. According to Source B, clean, filtrated water is the best drink with which to hydrate the body before, during and after exercise, as it is easily absorbed by the body without filtration. As important as fluid replacement is, one should especially take into consideration that if the body becomes dehydrated, the exerciser can feel cramps, fatigue and dizziness, or experience even more serious problems such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. This makes hydrating that much more important and is why I would chose water as the more natural choice.
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Overall, In terms of what to do differently, drinking sports drinks accordingly is key. Carbohydrated sports drinks and energy drinks should be avoided, as the sugar in these drinks will offer empty calories and the carbohydrates offer only short bursts of energy without good long-term effects. Too much can be unhealthy. Sports drinks vs. water comes down to the length and intensity of an athlete or exerciser's workout. Ultimately, to refuel the body properly sports drinks should not replace water during exercise and everyday