For those who regularly engage in workouts like running, biking, cross-training, or swimming, replenishing and rehydrating the body is crucial. One way to do this after intense physical activity is by drinking a sports beverage such as Propel water. Propel is enriched with various vitamins and minerals essential for recovery post-exercise. According to Propel, their water is infused with vitamins B, C, and E, along with electrolytes.
As per the experts at Healthline, electrolytes are vital minerals that dissolve in bodily fluids like blood, urine, and sweat to assist with important bodily functions including nerve and muscle operations and fluid regulation. Key electrolytes include potassium, sodium, and calcium.
Despite the benefits of sports drinks in providing electrolytes and vitamins, they do have critics. Erika Der Sarkissian, a clinical dietitian at Cedars Mt. Sinai, notes, “Sports drinks can also contain a significant amount of sugar and food coloring, and may not be necessary for those not engaging in intense exercise.” Christina Fasulo, another clinical dietitian at Cedars Mt. Sinai, adds, “Sugar, salts, and water aid fluid absorption, but many sports drinks have excessive sugar and insufficient electrolytes to effectively replenish what the body needs.”
It is safe to drink in moderation
According to experts at Livestrong, Propel water may aid in proper rehydration by supplying 270 milligrams of sodium and 70 milligrams of potassium, which is more than what tap water offers, as it contains minimal sodium and no potassium. However, Propel water also includes some less beneficial ingredients, such as acesulfame potassium (Ace-K). According to WebMD, acesulfame potassium is an artificial sweetener with only trace amounts of potassium. Propel also contains sucralose, described by Cleveland Clinic as a sweetener made from sugar, processed to be 600 times sweeter while being calorie-free. Research has shown sucralose caused inflammation in rats, but further studies are needed to understand its effects on humans.
In conclusion, if you engage in intense physical activities, consuming Propel water in moderation post-exercise can be advantageous. “In such situations, or when exercising in hot, humid conditions or for extended periods, an electrolyte-replacement drink might be beneficial,” states Fasulo. However, she notes that for those who partake in mild to moderate exercise, tap water is adequate for rehydration.
