Hydration & Electrolytes
The process of maintaining adequate fluid levels in the body.
Hydration
The simplest form of carbohydrate consisting of a single sugar molecule.
Monosaccharide
A sports drink designed to replace fluids faster than carbohydrates.
Hypotonic drink
The energy used by the body to maintain essential functions while at rest.
Basal metabolic rate (BMR)
Minerals such as sodium and potassium that help regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions.
Electrolytes
The sugar found in fruit.
Fructose
A sports drink with a similar carbohydrate concentration to body fluids.
Isotonic drink
Substances found in foods such as berries and vegetables that help neutralise free radicals.
Antioxidants
A condition caused by excessive water intake that results in dangerously low blood sodium levels.
Hyponatremia
A carbohydrate made up of many sugar molecules joined together.
Polysaccharide
A sports drink with a higher carbohydrate concentration than body fluids.
Hypertonic drink
The balance between the energy consumed through food and the energy expended through activity and bodily functions.
Energy balance
The body's ability to maintain a stable core temperature of approximately 37°C.
Thermoregulation
The storage form of carbohydrate found in muscles and the liver.
Glycogen
This ingredient is commonly added to sports drinks to replace sodium lost in sweat.
Salt
The body's hormone messaging system.
Endocrine system
This hydration state occurs when the body has lost excessive amounts of water through sweating and inadequate fluid intake.
Hypohydration
The process in which cells use glucose and oxygen to release energy.
Respiration
This type of sports drink is generally most suitable after prolonged exercise when energy stores need replenishing.
Hypertonic sports drink
Unstable molecules that can damage cells if they accumulate in large amounts.
Free radicals