It is not uncommon to see dedicated gym- goers covered in sweat, completing challenging exercise regimens in order to shed unwanted pounds. As they run mile after mile on the treadmill, they rehydrate with brightly colored sports drinks, unaware that they are drinking as many calories as they are burning and ruining the effects of their workouts. Sports drinks are one of the most misused products by recreational exercisers, who buy into the common misconception that the vitamins and minerals lost during a workout must be replaced through the consumption of enhanced sport beverages.

Many avid exercisers believe that these products will help them reach optimal athletic performance, and help them reach their fitness and weight loss goals. What many don’t realize is that sports drinks were not designed with a typical workout in mind and may actually be counterproductive to achieving weight loss goals.

“Anyone doing low levels of exercise, or looking to control their weight, may be better to stick with water,” suggests sports nutritionist, Dr. Fiona Pelly in the article “A Run on Sports Drinks,” in The Courier Mail. Commercial sports drinks typically contain high fructose corn syrup, which is high in calories, low in nutritional value and is associated with high blood pressure.  Products containing HFCS are not typically designed with weight control in mind but are great products for professional level athletes and those who perform long (4+ hours), strenuous workouts—yes, even longer than your typical sweat-filled spinning class.

The majority of those with typical workout patterns are still able to reach optimal performance by consuming water. Recreational exercise typically doesn’t require a sports drink to replenish nutrients on an immediate basis, explains research scientist Dr. Jolie Bookspan in Health & Fitness in Plain English. Simply put, sports drinks can be counterproductive to weight loss, so stick with water to stay hydrated during and after a workout.  Whatever your exercise beverage of choice, be certain to maintain adequate hydration while exercising.  And of course, strive to maintain a healthy daily diet and drink between 8-10 cups of water daily—the more the better!

Story By: Dana Leigh Smith