Chapter 16 – Nourishing Sports and Recovery Drinks

Matt Cole, Henrietta Paxton and Rachel Jesson

One of the biggest reasons for a ruined competition is the consumption of drinks, bars and gels that do not settle in the athlete’s gut.”

Abstract

The consumption of sports drinks has become commonplace within the environments of performance sport, fitness, and health-based settings, with most populations using them to boost energy, enhance performance, maintain hydration, and aid recovery. These beverages are typically formulated to address the unique needs of athletes, offering a balance of hydration, energy, electrolyte replenishment and even caffeinated stimulation. However, whilst sports drinks may offer several benefits, it is important that they are used mindfully and tailored to the specific needs of the individual and their level of activity. Additionally, we must also question whether there are any potentially harmful effects when regularly consuming commercial sports drinks, and investigate whether more natural, whole food derived options can be used to provide similar, plus added, benefits. This chapter will therefore evaluate the evidence for the use of sports and recovery drinks by athletes and exercisers, and explore highly nourishing ways to make and consume these beverages, for the potential betterment of health and physical performance.

Article

DIY Sports Drinks – Ian Craig

Downloadable figures
(original to this publication)

Figure 8.1b
Figure 8.3

Downloadable figures
(original to this publication)

Podcast

Natural sports cookery: is ‘food’ the missing ergogenic for athletes? – Rachel Jesson

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