Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Electrolytes- Why use them?

As part of the new ASA blog we will be doing a Q&A on nutrition. A common question is why I should use electrolytes?..... Well

A: Electrolytes are best consumed DURING activity. Consuming carbohydrates during activity enhances performance by providing a continuous supply of carbohydrate to working muscles. Your body stores a limited amount of carbohydrates and the harder you go, the faster you burn those carbohydrates. When you burn through the last of these stored carbohydrates, you run out of energy. By consuming carbohydrate during activity you will increase the length of time you can go. Drinking Electrolytes is also a good way of staying hydrated. It contains both carbohydrate and sodium, two key ingredients to absorbing fluid and maintaining hydration during exercise.

An office favourite is the electrolyte drink made by Clif. They taste great and are really easy on the stomach.
They can be checked out at http://www.clifbar.com/food/products_shot_electrolyte/1310

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