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Protect the body’s essential nutrient balance during training and racing (read: go faster for longer) by sipping a sports drink that hydrates and replaces electrolytes lost in sweat.
Base performance Hydro
One scoop of this electrolyte-rich sports drink powder delivers 90 calories and 275 milligrams of sodium, as well as 21 grams of carbohydrates from three sugar sources for faster uptake by working muscles. The natural lemon-lime flavor is mellow and doesn’t leave a sugary aftertaste. $20, Baseperformance.com
Hydration Health re:play
Said to supply the same hydrating power of an IV bag, this sugar-free powder formulation contains three key electrolytes: sodium, chloride and potassium and L-glutamine, which supports fast nutrient absorption across the intestinal wall. One scoop in 16 ounces of water also delivers a potent probiotics blend of 10 gut-health promoting bacteria strains. $36.90 for 30-serving tub or $2 per packet, Hydrationhealth.com
Gu Roctane
Fans of GU’s Roctane gels now have a fruity liquid option with the same benefits for long distance training and racing. Each Roctane serving has 320mg of sodium and 1900mg of amino acids, plus 35mg of caffeine (from white tea leaf extract) and the addition of taurine, which is said to help maintain heart and muscle function and decrease fatigue during prolonged exercise. GU also offers the drink in Grape (caffeine-free) and Lemon-Lime. $33 for a 10-pack, Guenergy.com
HOTSHOT
Billed by its maker as “a major scientific breakthrough” from a Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist/endurance athlete, HOTSHOT is a formulation of organic ingredients that can prevent and treat muscle cramps by stopping them at their source: the nerve. Consuming the 1.7-ounce drink 15–30 minutes before exercise is said to stimulate sensory neurons in the mouth, esophagus and stomach, which send impulses to the spinal cord that can overpower and inhibit signals coming to and from a cramping muscle. $35 for a 6-pack or $65 for a 12-pack, Teamhotshot.com
Bonk Breaker Real Hydration
Ingredient list purists will appreciate the non-GMO, gluten-free and certified organic stamps on this ultra-hydrating powder, available in lemon-line and wolfberry flavors. Tear open a sleeve and pour into 16 ounces of water for 70 calories, 16 grams of sugar as your carb source and 700 milligrams of electrolytes, including sodium (300mg) and potassium (198mg), and 40 percent of your daily recommended dose of Vitamin C. $35 for 20 single-serve packets, Bonkbreaker.com