Electrolytes in Smartwater Vs. Gatorade
Electrolytes in SmartwaterSmartwater is not considered a sports drink, but rather water with electrolytes added to enhance the flavor. It contains a smaller amount of electrolytes than Gatorade, with only 2.5 mg of potassium, 2.5 mg of sodium, and 3.75 mg of magnesium in an 8 oz serving (Corleone, 2013).
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Electrolytes in GatoradeThe sports drink Gatorade is specifically made to replenish fluids and electrolytes. The most common type of Gatorade is the Gatorade Perform (the one in the bottle). It contains about 110 mg of sodium in an 8 oz serving, about 5 percent of what your body needs. The Perform also contains about 30 mg of potassium, 1 percent of a human's daily recommended amount (Ulmer, 2010). The other two Gatorade types, Prime and Recover, have similar amounts of sodium. Gatorade Prime does not contain any potassium, while an 8 oz serving of Recover contains about 45 mg of it to replenish what the body has lost.
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Conclusion of Results
In conclusion, Gatorade is best for after or during intense physical activity that causes a lot of sweat and a large loss of electrolytes. However, taking in too much Gatorade can be harmful to the body if it does not take part in much exercise and stores the electrolytes in the body, creating a hyper solution in the body. Smartwater, on the other hand, does not contain a large amount of electrolytes, making it a very good drink when not doing much activity. The body still loses electrolytes slowly as it is walking, sitting, and standing. This small amount of electrolytes a fantastic amount to drink throughout the day.