Fluids are absorbed best in the human body when they are isotonic. When an isotonic beverage is consumed, absorption of water and energy (carbohydrate) is optimal.
Sport drinks have become an increasingly important segment of the worldwide drinks market.
The first isotonic beverages were liquids and this remains the dominant form, packaged in glass and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, cans and recently in pouch packs.
The second type of sports drink is the powdered product which requires mixing by the individual and avoids the inconvenience of transporting large volumes.
Some advocate that water is not enough and that it should be enriched with carbohydrates and electrolytes.
Sport drinks are commercial or homemade beverages that contain carbohydrates to enhance performance and electrolytes to prevent hyponatremia.
What are isotonic beverages?
