Experts say that people should drink eight glasses of water a day, but athletes need to drink more than this for optimal sports hydration. Learn about the benefits of drinking water and why dehydration has a negative impact on athletic performance. Consider the value of using sports drinks vs. drinking water. Use a hydration pack to help prevent dehydration during workouts. Understand why to stay hydrated in order to improve sports performance.
The Benefits of Drinking Water
Every person’s body is different, so there is no magical number for the right amount of water to drink to prevent dehydration. What’s true for everyone is that the benefits of drinking water are universal. Drinking enough water regularly helps the body function properly, optimizing physical performance and bodily functions. Not drinking enough water can lead to mild or even serious dehydration, a serious medical condition. Know the symptoms of dehydration to help prevent dehydration.
Dehydration and Athletic Performance
Many athletes — even top-caliber athletes — routinely allow themselves to become slightly to severely dehydrated during training and competition. By the time a person actually registers the feeling of being thirsty, he or she is already dehydrated. Studies have shown that a person who is as little as two percent dehydrated can experience up to a 10 percent decline in performance, and it gets worse from there.
Sports Drinks Vs. Water
Exercising not only depletes the body of fluids, but also, causes the body to lose valuable electrolytes. Sports drinks aim to replace those electrolytes along with the necessary fluids for rehydration. Once a person is dehydrated, it’s important that he rehydrate with electrolytes as well as water. Since eating solid food requires liquid for digestion, it’s better to turn to sports drinks for the necessary electrolyte replacement once a person is dehydrated.
Prevent Dehydration with a Hydration Pack
The best way to prevent dehydration is to stay hydrated throughout the day, whether it’s a training or competition day or a rest day. It’s best to make a conscious effort to drink water regularly throughout the day, and to drink every few minutes while working out or competing. For many athletes, a hydration pack is an easy way to have water prominently and easily accessible when working out.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
More on Keeping Hydrated
Understanding that hydration plays a critical role in the performance and health of runners is one thing. Actually figuring out what to drink is another. Choosing a drink, or a combination of them, is the next step in mastering hydration.
Many Drinks From Which to Choose
Walk down the beverage aisle in the grocery store and there lies an astonishing array of products to drink. In recent years, there has been a literal explosion in the number of drinks calling themselves “sports drinks” or “energy drinks”, many of which offer little to no value to runners.
Today there are five types of products on shelves that might be marketed in the general direction of runners:
1.Plain water – water with nothing added to it
2.Water with additives – water with vitamins or other additives
3.“Energy Drinks” – drinks that contain stimulants such as caffeine for energy
4.“Sports Drinks” – drinks that contain sugar and electrolytes
5.Electrolyte Drinks – products that contain only electrolytes and no sugar
Plain Water -- Not For Runners
Drinking plain water does re-hydrate the body to some extent, but plain water does not replace electrolytes that are critical for muscle function and fluid absorption. Water is best used as a supplement to other products, such as energy gels that contain electrolytes and sugar and need to be “washed down.” Drinking too much plain water can lead runners down the path to hyponatremia, which is a condition of low blood sodium that can be a very serious problem.
Drinks Well Suited for Athletes
The best choices for athletes are to use products that fall into either the “sports drink” or “electrolyte solution” category:
•Sports drinks, such as Vitalyte are formulated to provide both energy and electrolytes to athletes, but they typically have a bias toward energy. The newer Vitalyte Endurance Formula was created in response to the needs of athletes to provide more of the electrolytes (primarily sodium) that they need.
•Electrolyte solutions, such as Nuun Active Hydration, provide only electrolytes. They contain far more electrolytes than sports drinks, in the range of 4-5 times the amount of sodium, that runners require. Because these products don’t contain sugar, they are very easy to digest and are easily absorbed even when an athlete is already dehydrated. It is difficult to over-hydrate using a solution so rich in electrolytes, so these products can be drunk with limited fear of over-hydration.
As runners search for products that work for them, they should avoid those products that don’t provide them what they need and experiment with combinations of those that do. A mixture of “sports drinks” and “electrolyte solutions” should be a winning combination for most endurance athletes.
Many Drinks From Which to Choose
Walk down the beverage aisle in the grocery store and there lies an astonishing array of products to drink. In recent years, there has been a literal explosion in the number of drinks calling themselves “sports drinks” or “energy drinks”, many of which offer little to no value to runners.
Today there are five types of products on shelves that might be marketed in the general direction of runners:
1.Plain water – water with nothing added to it
2.Water with additives – water with vitamins or other additives
3.“Energy Drinks” – drinks that contain stimulants such as caffeine for energy
4.“Sports Drinks” – drinks that contain sugar and electrolytes
5.Electrolyte Drinks – products that contain only electrolytes and no sugar
Plain Water -- Not For Runners
Drinking plain water does re-hydrate the body to some extent, but plain water does not replace electrolytes that are critical for muscle function and fluid absorption. Water is best used as a supplement to other products, such as energy gels that contain electrolytes and sugar and need to be “washed down.” Drinking too much plain water can lead runners down the path to hyponatremia, which is a condition of low blood sodium that can be a very serious problem.
Drinks Well Suited for Athletes
The best choices for athletes are to use products that fall into either the “sports drink” or “electrolyte solution” category:
•Sports drinks, such as Vitalyte are formulated to provide both energy and electrolytes to athletes, but they typically have a bias toward energy. The newer Vitalyte Endurance Formula was created in response to the needs of athletes to provide more of the electrolytes (primarily sodium) that they need.
•Electrolyte solutions, such as Nuun Active Hydration, provide only electrolytes. They contain far more electrolytes than sports drinks, in the range of 4-5 times the amount of sodium, that runners require. Because these products don’t contain sugar, they are very easy to digest and are easily absorbed even when an athlete is already dehydrated. It is difficult to over-hydrate using a solution so rich in electrolytes, so these products can be drunk with limited fear of over-hydration.
As runners search for products that work for them, they should avoid those products that don’t provide them what they need and experiment with combinations of those that do. A mixture of “sports drinks” and “electrolyte solutions” should be a winning combination for most endurance athletes.
Sports Hydration
Athletes often view sports nutrition as a way to bulk up muscle and keep endurance levels high, but staying hydrated is an important part of the equation, too. Sports hydration isn't as simple as just drinking more water, though; too much water can cause electrolytes to become diluted. Electrolyte imbalance symptoms include headaches, nausea, muscle twitching, and disorientation. These important minerals can be replaced with an electrolyte drink, coconut water, or other options discussed below.
Staying Hydrated = Water + Electrolytes
Electrolyte molecules are found throughout the body, in the blood, cells, and tissues. They help keep the body's fluids in balance both between and within cells, keeping the endocrine, neuromuscular, and excretory systems working smoothly.
Electrolytes are made up of the following minerals:
•sodium
•potassium
•chloride
•calcium
•magnesium
•phosphate
•bicarbonate
Sports hydration includes replacing these minerals, as well as water, after sweating. An intense or long workout, or exercising in warmer temperatures, will cause more sweating, so even more water and electrolytes will need to be replaced.
Electrolyte Imbalance Symptoms
When an athlete sweats, water is lost from the body, and electrolytes are, too. When the electrolytes are lost, the systems they help regulate are disrupted, which can lead to discomfort, illness, comas, or even death. Here are some of the early electrolyte imbalance symptoms to watch out for.
•dizziness or feeling lightheaded
•headache
•confusion
•muscle pain, cramping, or twitches
•dark urine
•thirst
•dry mouth
If any of these symptoms are experienced during or after exercise, the athlete must have an electrolyte drink to start replenishing his/her body. If the symptoms persist or are severe, consult a doctor.
Staying Hydrated = Water + Electrolytes
Electrolyte molecules are found throughout the body, in the blood, cells, and tissues. They help keep the body's fluids in balance both between and within cells, keeping the endocrine, neuromuscular, and excretory systems working smoothly.
Electrolytes are made up of the following minerals:
•sodium
•potassium
•chloride
•calcium
•magnesium
•phosphate
•bicarbonate
Sports hydration includes replacing these minerals, as well as water, after sweating. An intense or long workout, or exercising in warmer temperatures, will cause more sweating, so even more water and electrolytes will need to be replaced.
Electrolyte Imbalance Symptoms
When an athlete sweats, water is lost from the body, and electrolytes are, too. When the electrolytes are lost, the systems they help regulate are disrupted, which can lead to discomfort, illness, comas, or even death. Here are some of the early electrolyte imbalance symptoms to watch out for.
•dizziness or feeling lightheaded
•headache
•confusion
•muscle pain, cramping, or twitches
•dark urine
•thirst
•dry mouth
If any of these symptoms are experienced during or after exercise, the athlete must have an electrolyte drink to start replenishing his/her body. If the symptoms persist or are severe, consult a doctor.
Keeping Hydrated
After 90 minutes of exercise, or 30 minutes of exercise or activity in extreme conditions, the body begins to lose electrolytes, which must be replaced. Electrolyte replacement is extremely important to endurance athletes, like marathoners, who are at risk of hyponatremia or "over hydrating."
Hyponatremia can occur when an athlete drinks too much water, which fails to replace lost sodium and causes sodium levels to drop to dangerously low levels. For more information, visit Hyponatremia a Concern for Marathon Runners.
The best way to avoid hyponatremia and dehydration during prolonged exercise is to increase salt intake and consume a sports drinks containing electrolytes like sodium and potassium and carbohydrates that re-fuel muscles.
For maximum hydration:
•Drink water for the first 90 minutes of activity, then switch to a sports drink or if exercising in extreme heat or cold, switch to a sports drink after 30 minutes.
•Weigh yourself before and after exercise, then consume 6 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes until your weight has returned to normal.
•Drink 8 to 10 ounces of a sports drink every two hours. Frequent sipping will help prevent an upset stomach and maximize electrolyte absorption.
•Between servings, drink water. In fact, dentists recommend rinsing your mouth out after drinking a sports drink to help prevent the sugar and acid from causing dental cavities.
•Snack on salty foods.
Choosing a Sports Drink
When compared to one another, most sports drinks are formulated with similar percentages of electrolytes and carbohydrates. This means that taste, tolerability and price become the most important factors in choosing one.
Following are examples of electrolyte replacement drinks that, per 8 ounce serving, contain correct amounts of carbohydrates and electrolytes.
•Gatorade
•PowerAde
•Exceed
•AllSport
•Hydra Fuel
•Cytomax
•Endura
•10K
•Breakthrough
Be Warned consumers to beware of drinks marketed for athletes that are not electrolyte drinks. Beverages to watch out for are vitamin fortified drinks, such as Propel Fitness Water, Glaceau VitaminWater and energy drinks like Red Bull, RockStar, etc.
Hyponatremia can occur when an athlete drinks too much water, which fails to replace lost sodium and causes sodium levels to drop to dangerously low levels. For more information, visit Hyponatremia a Concern for Marathon Runners.
The best way to avoid hyponatremia and dehydration during prolonged exercise is to increase salt intake and consume a sports drinks containing electrolytes like sodium and potassium and carbohydrates that re-fuel muscles.
For maximum hydration:
•Drink water for the first 90 minutes of activity, then switch to a sports drink or if exercising in extreme heat or cold, switch to a sports drink after 30 minutes.
•Weigh yourself before and after exercise, then consume 6 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes until your weight has returned to normal.
•Drink 8 to 10 ounces of a sports drink every two hours. Frequent sipping will help prevent an upset stomach and maximize electrolyte absorption.
•Between servings, drink water. In fact, dentists recommend rinsing your mouth out after drinking a sports drink to help prevent the sugar and acid from causing dental cavities.
•Snack on salty foods.
Choosing a Sports Drink
When compared to one another, most sports drinks are formulated with similar percentages of electrolytes and carbohydrates. This means that taste, tolerability and price become the most important factors in choosing one.
Following are examples of electrolyte replacement drinks that, per 8 ounce serving, contain correct amounts of carbohydrates and electrolytes.
•Gatorade
•PowerAde
•Exceed
•AllSport
•Hydra Fuel
•Cytomax
•Endura
•10K
•Breakthrough
Be Warned consumers to beware of drinks marketed for athletes that are not electrolyte drinks. Beverages to watch out for are vitamin fortified drinks, such as Propel Fitness Water, Glaceau VitaminWater and energy drinks like Red Bull, RockStar, etc.
Performing a Sweat Test
Performing a Sweat Test
The best way for runners to understand how much to drink is to perform a sweat test to see how much fluid they are losing during their runners. Here’s how to do a sweat test:
1.Get naked and weigh oneself on a scale
2.Get dressed and then run
3.Get naked again and re-weigh on the scale
The difference in the runner’s weight in the pre- and post-run weighing will be the amount of fluid lost during the run. It is important to be naked for these tests, because otherwise the runner’s clothing will just soak up the sweat. Performing a test like this several times under different temperature conditions will help runners see how much they are sweating and how much fluid they need to replace.
Replacing Electrolytes
In addition to fluids lost in exercise, electrolytes such as sodium, magnesium and potassium are being lost as well. These chemicals play important roles, such as helping to absorb fluids (sodium) and to avoid cramps (potassium). All runners will be losing these chemicals, but those who are especially salty sweaters will see a crusty white film on their skin afterward and should plan to take in even more of these chemicals.
The best way to replace electrolytes is through the use of a sports drink or electrolyte solution that contains a healthy amount of sodium and these other chemicals. Eating salty foods, such as pretzels, before and during workouts will also help add salt back in to the body. It is important to realize the drinking plain water does not replace sodium or other electrolytes and does not replace these substances.
Drink to Replace Fluids and Electrolytes
The bottom line is that all runners lose fluids and electrolytes through their sweat and must replace them to keep from becoming dehydrated and over-heated. It is important that all runners take the time to understand how much fluid they need to replace to ensure they are getting enough – and not too much – of what they need to keep healthy.
The best way for runners to understand how much to drink is to perform a sweat test to see how much fluid they are losing during their runners. Here’s how to do a sweat test:
1.Get naked and weigh oneself on a scale
2.Get dressed and then run
3.Get naked again and re-weigh on the scale
The difference in the runner’s weight in the pre- and post-run weighing will be the amount of fluid lost during the run. It is important to be naked for these tests, because otherwise the runner’s clothing will just soak up the sweat. Performing a test like this several times under different temperature conditions will help runners see how much they are sweating and how much fluid they need to replace.
Replacing Electrolytes
In addition to fluids lost in exercise, electrolytes such as sodium, magnesium and potassium are being lost as well. These chemicals play important roles, such as helping to absorb fluids (sodium) and to avoid cramps (potassium). All runners will be losing these chemicals, but those who are especially salty sweaters will see a crusty white film on their skin afterward and should plan to take in even more of these chemicals.
The best way to replace electrolytes is through the use of a sports drink or electrolyte solution that contains a healthy amount of sodium and these other chemicals. Eating salty foods, such as pretzels, before and during workouts will also help add salt back in to the body. It is important to realize the drinking plain water does not replace sodium or other electrolytes and does not replace these substances.
Drink to Replace Fluids and Electrolytes
The bottom line is that all runners lose fluids and electrolytes through their sweat and must replace them to keep from becoming dehydrated and over-heated. It is important that all runners take the time to understand how much fluid they need to replace to ensure they are getting enough – and not too much – of what they need to keep healthy.
Treatment of Dehydration
Treatment of diarrhea can begin at home if there are no severe symptoms that accompany it.
- Begin hydration immediately with water and clear fluids.
- Avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks during diarrhea treatment as they can dehydrate.
- Milk will prolong diarrhea treatment so, for more severe cases, avoid it as well.
- For moderate or severe diarrhea, drink electrolyte liquids such as Vitalyte. Electrolytes help chronic diarrhea treatment as they conduct signals throughout the body. Dehydration, that often accompanies diarrhea, can cause a severe electrolyte imbalance.
- If nausea is present, suck on ice chips to keep hydrated during diarrhea treatment.
Your diet is also critical in diarrhea treatment.
- Begin by eating a probiotic yogurt. Probiotics have been shown to ease the symptoms of diarrhea and helps to shorten diarrhea treatment.
- Incorporate the BRAT diet as well. BRAT stands for banana, rice, apples (or applesauce), and dry toast. These foods are usually recommended for children, but adults will benefit as well. All of these foods may help shorten the need for treatment of diarrhea. The diet does not need to be restricted to them, but they will help.
- Avoid greasy or fried foods as they can exacerbate the problem. After the diarrhea treatment has passed, it is advised to avoid fried foods and alcohol to prevent a recurrence.
Treatment of diarrhea rests on getting enough rest. The body is going to be severely drained during a bout. Electrolyte imbalances lead to muscle weakness. Dehydration can lead to dizziness or weakness. Take care of yourself first so that you can get better. Unless you are told to by a doctor, avoid taking diarrhea medications. This can prevent the body from expelling what is causing the problem.
When should diarrhea treatment be given to the professionals? For newborns, any vomiting or diarrhea should be immediately reported to the pediatrician. For children over about 3 months, any vomiting that lasts more than a few hours should be reported. For adults, if diarrhea persists for more than three days, then go to the doctor.
- Begin hydration immediately with water and clear fluids.
- Avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks during diarrhea treatment as they can dehydrate.
- Milk will prolong diarrhea treatment so, for more severe cases, avoid it as well.
- For moderate or severe diarrhea, drink electrolyte liquids such as Vitalyte. Electrolytes help chronic diarrhea treatment as they conduct signals throughout the body. Dehydration, that often accompanies diarrhea, can cause a severe electrolyte imbalance.
- If nausea is present, suck on ice chips to keep hydrated during diarrhea treatment.
Your diet is also critical in diarrhea treatment.
- Begin by eating a probiotic yogurt. Probiotics have been shown to ease the symptoms of diarrhea and helps to shorten diarrhea treatment.
- Incorporate the BRAT diet as well. BRAT stands for banana, rice, apples (or applesauce), and dry toast. These foods are usually recommended for children, but adults will benefit as well. All of these foods may help shorten the need for treatment of diarrhea. The diet does not need to be restricted to them, but they will help.
- Avoid greasy or fried foods as they can exacerbate the problem. After the diarrhea treatment has passed, it is advised to avoid fried foods and alcohol to prevent a recurrence.
Treatment of diarrhea rests on getting enough rest. The body is going to be severely drained during a bout. Electrolyte imbalances lead to muscle weakness. Dehydration can lead to dizziness or weakness. Take care of yourself first so that you can get better. Unless you are told to by a doctor, avoid taking diarrhea medications. This can prevent the body from expelling what is causing the problem.
When should diarrhea treatment be given to the professionals? For newborns, any vomiting or diarrhea should be immediately reported to the pediatrician. For children over about 3 months, any vomiting that lasts more than a few hours should be reported. For adults, if diarrhea persists for more than three days, then go to the doctor.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Sodium and Potassium Electrolytes
These two electrolytes are super important for your body and Vitalyte utilizes them in their formula to make sure your body is getting only the best!
Sodium
Sodium is the major positive ion (cation) in fluid outside of cells. The chemical notation for sodium is Na+. When combined with chloride, the resulting substance is table salt. Excess sodium (such as that obtained from dietary sources) is excreted in the urine. Sodium regulates the total amount of water in the body and the transmission of sodium into and out of individual cells also plays a role in critical body functions. Many processes in the body, especially in the brain, nervous system, and muscles, require electrical signals for communication. The movement of sodium is critical in generation of these electrical signals. Too much or too little sodium therefore can cause cells to malfunction, and extremes in the blood sodium levels (too much or too little) can be fatal.
•Increased sodium (hypernatremia) in the blood occurs whenever there is excess sodium in relation to water. There are numerous causes of hypernatremia; these may include kidney disease, too little water intake, and loss of water due to diarrhea and/or vomiting.
Potassium
Potassium is the major positive ion (cation) found inside of cells. The chemical notation for potassium is K+. The proper level of potassium is essential for normal cell function. Among the many functions of potassium in the body are regulation of the heartbeat and the function of the muscles. A seriously abnormal increase in potassium (hyperkalemia) or decrease in potassium (hypokalemia) can profoundly affect the nervous system and increases the chance of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), which, when extreme, can be fatal.
•Hypokalemia, or decreased potassium, can arise due to kidney diseases; excessive loss due to heavy sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea, eating disorders, certain medications, or other causes.
Vitalytes electrolyte formula hydrates, replenishes, energizes and revitalizes, all while maintaining that perfect electrolyte balance of the four core electrolytes: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. We pay special attention to the dynamic duo: sodium and potassium since these are the first two minerals lost and play the leading role in hydration. Our sodium/potassium balance is the ideal marriage for hydrating thirsty bodies with exactly what they need and nothing they don't. Not too much sodium, not too little potassium and the optimal amounts of calcium and magnesium. And because Vitalyte is made almost entirely of glucose - the only sugar that doesn't have to be digested - it's isotonic which means that it matches to the body's fluids that are being absorbed directly from the stomach into the blood, similar to an IV.
Sodium
Sodium is the major positive ion (cation) in fluid outside of cells. The chemical notation for sodium is Na+. When combined with chloride, the resulting substance is table salt. Excess sodium (such as that obtained from dietary sources) is excreted in the urine. Sodium regulates the total amount of water in the body and the transmission of sodium into and out of individual cells also plays a role in critical body functions. Many processes in the body, especially in the brain, nervous system, and muscles, require electrical signals for communication. The movement of sodium is critical in generation of these electrical signals. Too much or too little sodium therefore can cause cells to malfunction, and extremes in the blood sodium levels (too much or too little) can be fatal.
•Increased sodium (hypernatremia) in the blood occurs whenever there is excess sodium in relation to water. There are numerous causes of hypernatremia; these may include kidney disease, too little water intake, and loss of water due to diarrhea and/or vomiting.
Potassium
Potassium is the major positive ion (cation) found inside of cells. The chemical notation for potassium is K+. The proper level of potassium is essential for normal cell function. Among the many functions of potassium in the body are regulation of the heartbeat and the function of the muscles. A seriously abnormal increase in potassium (hyperkalemia) or decrease in potassium (hypokalemia) can profoundly affect the nervous system and increases the chance of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), which, when extreme, can be fatal.
•Hypokalemia, or decreased potassium, can arise due to kidney diseases; excessive loss due to heavy sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea, eating disorders, certain medications, or other causes.
Vitalytes electrolyte formula hydrates, replenishes, energizes and revitalizes, all while maintaining that perfect electrolyte balance of the four core electrolytes: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. We pay special attention to the dynamic duo: sodium and potassium since these are the first two minerals lost and play the leading role in hydration. Our sodium/potassium balance is the ideal marriage for hydrating thirsty bodies with exactly what they need and nothing they don't. Not too much sodium, not too little potassium and the optimal amounts of calcium and magnesium. And because Vitalyte is made almost entirely of glucose - the only sugar that doesn't have to be digested - it's isotonic which means that it matches to the body's fluids that are being absorbed directly from the stomach into the blood, similar to an IV.
Mardy Fish
What can we say about Mardy Fish, besides that he is an amazingly good professional tennis player? How about the fact that he uses Vitalyte as his choice of drink to help nourish and replenish his body! Mardy Fish understands the need to kepp his body hydrated, especially during an intense tennis match, and he also knows that Vitalyte works way better than Gatorade!
Here are some great thigns this fantastic tennis player has to say about Vitalyte:
"What is your favorite thing about Vitalyte? I LOVE THE WAY VITALYTE TASTES AND I LOVE THAT IT REPLENISHES ELECTROLYTES WHILE I PLAY. IT ALLOWS ME TO PERFORM AT MY BEST.
What is your favorite flavor of Vitalyte? I LIKE ALL OF THE FLAVORS BUT FRUIT PUNCH IS THE ONE THAT I USE ON THE COURT."
Here is a short bio of why Mardy Fish is one of the best:
Mardy Fish was born December 9, 1981 in Edina, Minnesota. He started playing tennis at the age of two and turned professional in 2000 at the age of eighteen. Fish has nine ATP titles to his credit, three in singles and six in doubles. He is currently ranked #24 in the world and in the third highest ranked American. Fish’s best result at a Grand Slam tournament came in 2007 when he reached the quarterfinals at the Australian Open and in 2008 when he reached the quarters at the US Open before losing to current World No. 1 Rafael Nadal. His biggest win in singles came in 2008 at the Pacific Life Open when he defeated the then World No. 1 Roger Federer. Fish was married in September 2008 to his wife Stacey. They reside in both Florida and California and Fish splits his training between Tampa and Los Angeles.
Here are some great thigns this fantastic tennis player has to say about Vitalyte:
"What is your favorite thing about Vitalyte? I LOVE THE WAY VITALYTE TASTES AND I LOVE THAT IT REPLENISHES ELECTROLYTES WHILE I PLAY. IT ALLOWS ME TO PERFORM AT MY BEST.
What is your favorite flavor of Vitalyte? I LIKE ALL OF THE FLAVORS BUT FRUIT PUNCH IS THE ONE THAT I USE ON THE COURT."
Here is a short bio of why Mardy Fish is one of the best:
Mardy Fish was born December 9, 1981 in Edina, Minnesota. He started playing tennis at the age of two and turned professional in 2000 at the age of eighteen. Fish has nine ATP titles to his credit, three in singles and six in doubles. He is currently ranked #24 in the world and in the third highest ranked American. Fish’s best result at a Grand Slam tournament came in 2007 when he reached the quarterfinals at the Australian Open and in 2008 when he reached the quarters at the US Open before losing to current World No. 1 Rafael Nadal. His biggest win in singles came in 2008 at the Pacific Life Open when he defeated the then World No. 1 Roger Federer. Fish was married in September 2008 to his wife Stacey. They reside in both Florida and California and Fish splits his training between Tampa and Los Angeles.
Woody Austin
We all know Woody Austin, he is a famous golfer known the world round. But did you know that he is an adamant Vitalyte user? I bet you didn't! Woody Austin knows, from first-hand experience, that Vitalyte is way better than other sports drinks such as Gatorade and Powerade, just ask him. Here is a small Q&A session with the amazing golfer:
"What is your favorite thing about Vitalyte? It’s very simple, it tastes great and it works!
What is your favorite flavor of Vitalyte? Orange."
Look at that! It's no wonder this guy chooses Vitalyte over the competition! Here is one of Vitalyte's greatest victories with Woody Austin:
The 2007 PGA Championship was the hottest major championship on record, where temperatures reached a scorching 103 degrees. Thanks to Vitalyte, Woody Austin was able to brave the heat, while battling Tiger Woods all the way to the finish. While other golfers struggled with deydration caused by these high temperatures, Woody’s game was unaffected… Thanks to Vitalyte!
"What is your favorite thing about Vitalyte? It’s very simple, it tastes great and it works!
What is your favorite flavor of Vitalyte? Orange."
Look at that! It's no wonder this guy chooses Vitalyte over the competition! Here is one of Vitalyte's greatest victories with Woody Austin:
The 2007 PGA Championship was the hottest major championship on record, where temperatures reached a scorching 103 degrees. Thanks to Vitalyte, Woody Austin was able to brave the heat, while battling Tiger Woods all the way to the finish. While other golfers struggled with deydration caused by these high temperatures, Woody’s game was unaffected… Thanks to Vitalyte!
Vitalyte's Products
Vitalyte is there for you when you need it most, especially when you need to hydrate yourself. It has the perfect balance of minerals, vitamins, and electrolytes to quench your thirst fast, and resotre balance to your body.
Don't confuse Vitalyte with those other products, like Gatorade and Powerade, because Vitalyte has a much better formula that will outlast the competition! Vitalyte's formula is the formula of choice for sports athletes all across the United States!
Vitalytes electrolyte formula hydrates, replenishes, energizes and revitalizes, all while maintaining that perfect electrolyte balance of the four core electrolytes: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. We pay special attention to the dynamic duo: sodium and potassium since these are the first two minerals lost and play the leading role in hydration. Our sodium/potassium balance is the ideal marriage for hydrating thirsty bodies with exactly what they need and nothing they don't. Not too much sodium, not too little potassium and the optimal amounts of calcium and magnesium. And because Vitalyte is made almost entirely of glucose - the only sugar that doesn't have to be digested - it's isotonic which means that it matches to the body's fluids that are being absorbed directly from the stomach into the blood, similar to an IV.
Rapid and effective, Vitalyte has no "extra" unnecessary ingredients to slow you down. Your blood volume increases, your energy is replenished and your thirst is conquered. It's that simple... electrolytes replacing electrolytes. Period. We've done the research. We've done the math. And we feel that we've created the perfect formula for hydration. It's up to you what to do next.
Don't confuse Vitalyte with those other products, like Gatorade and Powerade, because Vitalyte has a much better formula that will outlast the competition! Vitalyte's formula is the formula of choice for sports athletes all across the United States!
Vitalytes electrolyte formula hydrates, replenishes, energizes and revitalizes, all while maintaining that perfect electrolyte balance of the four core electrolytes: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. We pay special attention to the dynamic duo: sodium and potassium since these are the first two minerals lost and play the leading role in hydration. Our sodium/potassium balance is the ideal marriage for hydrating thirsty bodies with exactly what they need and nothing they don't. Not too much sodium, not too little potassium and the optimal amounts of calcium and magnesium. And because Vitalyte is made almost entirely of glucose - the only sugar that doesn't have to be digested - it's isotonic which means that it matches to the body's fluids that are being absorbed directly from the stomach into the blood, similar to an IV.
Rapid and effective, Vitalyte has no "extra" unnecessary ingredients to slow you down. Your blood volume increases, your energy is replenished and your thirst is conquered. It's that simple... electrolytes replacing electrolytes. Period. We've done the research. We've done the math. And we feel that we've created the perfect formula for hydration. It's up to you what to do next.
Benefits of Vitalyte
Replenishment of Electrolytes
Electrolytes are salts that are naturally part of body fluids. When an athlete (or a gardener or a mail carrier or anyone else who engages in physical activity) sweats, electrolytes are lost through the sweat. If electrolytes are lost too quickly, the body does not have the ability to restore them as rapidly as they were lost. Sports drinks contain electrolytes such as chloride, sodium, and potassium to help replenish what was lost through sweat. Introducing electrolytes back into the body helps keep dehydration from occurring. Dehydration can become a very serious problem if not attended to. Electrolytes help to increase the absorption of fluids into the bloodstream.
A person who is exerting energy can quickly become dehydrated, in as little as 30 minutes. Therefore, it is suggested that athletes begin drinking a sports drink even before they start their activity.
Replenishment of Energy
Anyone who has ever exercised knows that fatigue can occur quickly. One of the reasons for this is that exercise increases metabolism, and when a person's metabolism is working overtime, it breaks down carbohydrates quickly. Carbohydrates are one of the main sources of energy for the body.
By replacing lost carbohydrates, the body can continue to work efficiently and an athlete has more energy to complete their activity.
Replacement of Lost Vitamins and Minerals
The human body also draws energy from various vitamins and minerals only found in certain foods, beverages or supplements. Sports drinks contain these vitamins and minerals to help keep the body working efficiently during activity.
Quenching of Thirst
As the body loses fluids, a person who is exerting energy will become thirsty. The ingredients found in sports drinks can quench thirst as effectively as water and better than soft drinks leaving the person feeling more refreshed and energized.
The Right Balance of Ingredients
In the past, many athletes created their own energy/sports drinks. Some still do. However, a sports drink that has a proper balance of ingredients will be much more effective than a homemade version. Most commercial sports drinks have the correct balance of electrolytes, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and liquids. Without the right mix of ingredients in the proper amounts, a sports drink could hinder instead of enhance performance. Upset stomach or poor absorption rate of the drink could occur from the wrong balance of ingredients.
Electrolytes are salts that are naturally part of body fluids. When an athlete (or a gardener or a mail carrier or anyone else who engages in physical activity) sweats, electrolytes are lost through the sweat. If electrolytes are lost too quickly, the body does not have the ability to restore them as rapidly as they were lost. Sports drinks contain electrolytes such as chloride, sodium, and potassium to help replenish what was lost through sweat. Introducing electrolytes back into the body helps keep dehydration from occurring. Dehydration can become a very serious problem if not attended to. Electrolytes help to increase the absorption of fluids into the bloodstream.
A person who is exerting energy can quickly become dehydrated, in as little as 30 minutes. Therefore, it is suggested that athletes begin drinking a sports drink even before they start their activity.
Replenishment of Energy
Anyone who has ever exercised knows that fatigue can occur quickly. One of the reasons for this is that exercise increases metabolism, and when a person's metabolism is working overtime, it breaks down carbohydrates quickly. Carbohydrates are one of the main sources of energy for the body.
By replacing lost carbohydrates, the body can continue to work efficiently and an athlete has more energy to complete their activity.
Replacement of Lost Vitamins and Minerals
The human body also draws energy from various vitamins and minerals only found in certain foods, beverages or supplements. Sports drinks contain these vitamins and minerals to help keep the body working efficiently during activity.
Quenching of Thirst
As the body loses fluids, a person who is exerting energy will become thirsty. The ingredients found in sports drinks can quench thirst as effectively as water and better than soft drinks leaving the person feeling more refreshed and energized.
The Right Balance of Ingredients
In the past, many athletes created their own energy/sports drinks. Some still do. However, a sports drink that has a proper balance of ingredients will be much more effective than a homemade version. Most commercial sports drinks have the correct balance of electrolytes, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and liquids. Without the right mix of ingredients in the proper amounts, a sports drink could hinder instead of enhance performance. Upset stomach or poor absorption rate of the drink could occur from the wrong balance of ingredients.
What are Electrolytes?
Electrolyte is a "medical/scientific" term for salts, specifically ions. The term electrolyte means that this ion is electrically-charged and moves to either a negative (cathode) or positive (anode) electrode:
•ions that move to the cathode (cations) are positively charged
•ions that move to the anode (anions) are negatively charged
For example, your body fluids -- blood, plasma, interstitial fluid (fluid between cells) -- are like seawater and have a high concentration of sodium chloride (table salt, or NaCl). The electrolytes in sodium chloride are:
•sodium ion (Na+) - cation
•chloride ion (Cl-) - anion
As for your body, the major electrolytes are as follows:
•sodium (Na+)
•potassium (K+)
•chloride (Cl-)
•calcium (Ca2+)
•magnesium (Mg2+)
•bicarbonate (HCO3-)
•phosphate (PO42-)
•sulfate (SO42-)
Electrolytes are important because they are what your cells (especially nerve, heart, muscle) use to maintain voltages across their cell membranes and to carry electrical impulses (nerve impulses, muscle contractions) across themselves and to other cells. Your kidneys work to keep the electrolyte concentrations in your blood constant despite changes in your body. For example, when you exercise heavily, you lose electrolytes in your sweat, particularly sodium and potassium. These electrolytes must be replaced to keep the electrolyte concentrations of your body fluids constant. So, many sports drinks have sodium chloride or potassium chloride added to them. They also have sugar and flavorings to provide your body with extra energy and to make the drink taste better.
Another example where electrolyte drinks are important is when infants/children have chronic vomiting or diarrhea, perhaps due to intestinal flu viruses. When children vomit or have diarrhea, they lose electrolytes. Again, these electrolytes and the fluids must be replaced to prevent dehydration and seizures. Therefore, drinks such as Pedialyte have sodium and potassium in them like the sports drinks do. However, pediatricians do not recommend giving sports drinks to a sick child! Sports drinks have much higher sugar concentrations than Pedialyte and the high sugar is not a proper treatment.
•ions that move to the cathode (cations) are positively charged
•ions that move to the anode (anions) are negatively charged
For example, your body fluids -- blood, plasma, interstitial fluid (fluid between cells) -- are like seawater and have a high concentration of sodium chloride (table salt, or NaCl). The electrolytes in sodium chloride are:
•sodium ion (Na+) - cation
•chloride ion (Cl-) - anion
As for your body, the major electrolytes are as follows:
•sodium (Na+)
•potassium (K+)
•chloride (Cl-)
•calcium (Ca2+)
•magnesium (Mg2+)
•bicarbonate (HCO3-)
•phosphate (PO42-)
•sulfate (SO42-)
Electrolytes are important because they are what your cells (especially nerve, heart, muscle) use to maintain voltages across their cell membranes and to carry electrical impulses (nerve impulses, muscle contractions) across themselves and to other cells. Your kidneys work to keep the electrolyte concentrations in your blood constant despite changes in your body. For example, when you exercise heavily, you lose electrolytes in your sweat, particularly sodium and potassium. These electrolytes must be replaced to keep the electrolyte concentrations of your body fluids constant. So, many sports drinks have sodium chloride or potassium chloride added to them. They also have sugar and flavorings to provide your body with extra energy and to make the drink taste better.
Another example where electrolyte drinks are important is when infants/children have chronic vomiting or diarrhea, perhaps due to intestinal flu viruses. When children vomit or have diarrhea, they lose electrolytes. Again, these electrolytes and the fluids must be replaced to prevent dehydration and seizures. Therefore, drinks such as Pedialyte have sodium and potassium in them like the sports drinks do. However, pediatricians do not recommend giving sports drinks to a sick child! Sports drinks have much higher sugar concentrations than Pedialyte and the high sugar is not a proper treatment.
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