My understanding is that it depends on context. Have you been sweating a lot? Are you super dehydrated? Sports drinks (actual "sports drinks" like Gatorade) are probably better for you than water.

The reason for that is because you lose a lot of salt and other electrolytes through sweat, and drinks like Gatorade are meant to replace those. That's why professional athletes, especially stamina-based athletes like marathon runners, football players, etc, tend to drink some form of sports drink (the sponsorships help though). Additionally, if you're extremely dehydrated then you may also be low on electrolytes (because you've been out in the sun, or you've been sweating a lot). I've also heard that sports drinks hydrate faster because they're supposedly similar to saline, but I can't find any sources for that, so take that with a grain of salt.

However, if you're just kinda thirsty or want something to drink, then water is probably better. I doubt you'll hurt yourself drinking Gatorade instead of water, but you don't need it either.

[–] rockSlayer 39 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago)

they're supposedly similar to saline, but I can't find any sources for that, so take that with a grain of salt

Intentional or not, that is a grade A pun

[–] [email protected] 26 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (1 children)

Gatorade and its electrolytes are better than water for recharging and rehydrating after or during significant physical activity.

Basically, you are correct that an appropriate amount of salts helps you rehydrate more quickly.

You know what is even better for most people, if your daily caloric intake is not at Olympic levels?

Pedialyte. No where near as much sugar thrown in, more Vitamins, less carbs.

This article goes into it a bit more:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pedialyte-vs-gatorade#bottom-line

Basically, Gatorade's additional sugar and carbs mean that it makes sense if you are highly active, have a considerably above average physique, or actively drinking it mid work out or other strenuous activity.

For more average people, pedialyte probably makes more sense.

Especially if you are going to pick one to replace water.

[–] [email protected] 15 points 5 months ago (2 children)

While I agree with you, Gatorade released a Pedialyte competitor called Gatorlyte recently. Similar benefits but half the price. I'd recommend that (or a similarly cheap option if another exists) to keep from breaking the bank.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 5 months ago

Well dang, I have never heard of that!

I'll have to see if anywhere around me carries it

[–] [email protected] 1 points 5 months ago

The gatorlyte also is way less sweet than the pedialyte. When my some was sick and throwing up we got him some pedialyte and he wouldn’t drink it because it was so sweet.

After he refused I tried some and agreed it was disgustingly sweet. Made me feel good about the watered down apple juice (and usually water and milk for lunches).