There are many sports drink brands out there, but ultimately, they contain very similar ingredients and are intended to serve the same purpose.  Sports drinks are meant to replenish essentials that are lost during vigorous activity to maintain physical performance.  Electrolytes (sodium and potassium), carbohydrates, b-vitamins and calories (sugar) are all used and lost during [...]

Hypotonic sports drinks are those sports drinks that contain less than 8% concentration of minerals and carbohydrates.   Hypotonic sports drinks are rapidly absorbed by the body for accelerated fluid replenishment.   Hypotonic sports drinks are better suited for lower calorie hydration and mineral restoration and can be used before, during and after activity.
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Hypertonic sports drinks are defined by a mineral and carbohydrate concentration that is greater than 8%.  The high level of carbohydrates in hypertonic sports drinks make them a better choice for carbo-loading or to replenish glycogen that’s lost after extended physical endurance.  Since hypertonic sports drinks are absorbed at a much slower rate than hypotonic [...]