Graeme Close, a Professor of Human Physiology and Head of the Research Institute for Sports and Exercise, dives into the science of hydration. He clarifies whether electrolyte drinks actually outperform plain water in hydration and performance. The conversation shifts to the role of electrolytes in athletic conditions, emphasizing the risks of improper hydration. Close also advocates for personalized hydration strategies tailored to individual sweat rates, challenging common beliefs about sports drinks and electrolyte supplementation.
Electrolytes play a vital role in hydration and bodily functions, but healthy individuals may not require commercial products for everyday needs.
Marketing and influencer trends can mislead consumers about the necessity of electrolyte drinks, while homemade solutions often suffice for maintaining hydration.
Deep dives
Understanding Hydration Products
Hydration products have surged in popularity, with many brands claiming to enhance hydration beyond what water can provide. One prominent product mentioned is Humantra, which offers sachets that purportedly hydrate four times better than plain water. This trend raises questions about the efficacy and real benefit of these products, especially considering the myriad of options available, including effervescent tablets and ready-to-drink solutions. Influencer-led marketing often complicates the consumer's ability to discern between scientifically-backed products and those primarily promoted for profit.
The Role of Electrolytes
Electrolytes are essential minerals that carry an electric charge and play critical roles in bodily functions, such as muscle contractions and hydration regulation. Common sources of electrolytes include dietary intake from foods like fruits, vegetables, and salts dissolved in water. The body can typically maintain a balance of these electrolytes effectively, meaning severe deficiencies are uncommon in healthy individuals. However, extreme situations, such as prolonged exercise in hot conditions, can lead to electrolyte depletion, emphasizing the need for careful hydration strategies.
Hydration Needs and Performance
General hydration needs can vary significantly, influenced by factors like exercise intensity and duration. While some athletes may tolerate up to an 8% dehydration level without performance loss, the consensus is that a 3% body weight loss could begin to impair performance. It's crucial for individuals to listen to their bodies and drink according to their thirst, particularly during exercise. Determining personal sweat rates can aid in understanding specific hydration requirements during different types of physical activity.
Cost vs. Necessity of Hydration Products
The cost of hydration products can be a deterrent, especially when basic water can suffice for most situations. While celebrity endorsements and marketing can create a perception of necessity, many experts advise that for standard workouts, plain water should be adequate. Homemade electrolyte solutions using natural ingredients can be a cost-effective alternative for those needing additional hydration. Overall, while certain circumstances may warrant the use of commercial hydration products, they are not essential for everyone, and prioritizing a balanced diet can often cover electrolyte needs.
Do drinks and powders with electrolytes help to hydrate you better?
Listener Rob got in touch as he’s recently taken up a new sport and wants to know if electrolytes can help his performance and recovery. He’s seen lots of adverts on social media for drinks and powders containing electrolytes that claim to hydrate you better than just plain water. But do they?
To find the answers, Greg speaks to Graeme Close, Professor of Human Physiology and Head of the Research Institute for Sports and Exercise Sciences at Liverpool John Moores University.
All our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you've seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voicenote to our WhatsApp number 07543 306807
PRESENTER: GREG FOOT
PRODUCER: SIMON HOBAN
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