Sports drink ads make us believe that we may end up just like the fitness model from that commercial if we consume a bottle of their neon-hued product…typical seductive marketing. The truth is that most drinks sold as vitamin-and nutrient-infused necessities for exercise are a bit more than candy-colored sugar water.

The most popular selling sports drink on the market offers 21 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving which is almost more than 5 teaspoons of sugar. For your information, the American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugar daily for women!

A study published by the British Medical Journal concluded that sports drinks were good for endurance and athletes. There are some great drinks to drink, in addition to water, while exercising and we must pick them wisely. Hydration is crucial and in the following text, we will share some amazing sports drink alternatives which are 100% healthy. Also, they will improve your performance and help you recover faster.

  • Coconut water

According to a 2012 study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, coconut water is good as regular water and sports drinks. It is great for performance and rehydrating. It is sugar-free and doesn’t contain artificial colors.

  • Watermelon juice

People who consume watermelon juice before exercising felt less sore the next day, according to researchers. Moreover, watermelon offers many health benefits and it is delicious. You can simply blend seeded chunks of fruit in the blender.

  • Raisins

Using raisins instead of sports gels and hydrating with water is a wonderful alternative to sports drinks. Researchers found out that snacking on raisins before workouts helped athletes sustain their energy.

  • Bananas

Bananas are effective for sustaining the performance and electrolyte balances of hard-working athletes. Make sure to combine them with sufficient hydration.

  • Chocolate Milk

Chocolate milk offers the right balance of carbohydrates and protein which is the optimal mix for recovery. Moreover, it contains vitamin D, calcium, vitamin A and iron which makes it the “ideal post-workout recovery drink”. Advice: aim for one with natural ingredients.

  • DIY

• 3.5 cups water
• ¼ cup organic orange juice
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Mix and drink!