Workouts that exceed an hour require more than just water. Isotonic drinks come in here with carbohydrates and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium to promote rapid recovery.
A thermal bottle for isotonic drinks?
Absolutely - YES. It ensures that these drinks remain at the ideal temperature, which is key to their effectiveness. Many people choose to take ordinary mineral water with them for training. Is this the right thing to do? Can drinking water alone protect us from the undesirable effects of dehydration? Of course! For a workout lasting up to an hour, mineral water is the most optimal drink. Consuming drinks enriched with carbohydrates and electrolytes is more advisable when you are exercising intensively - usually for more than an hour - as they replenish fluids and add energy.
It's worth reading the composition
Unfortunately, ready-made isotonic drinks available in stores are mostly chemical mixtures, often containing large amounts of dyes, preservatives, flavors and often artificial sweeteners! Therefore, the best healthy isotonic drinks for athletes are those you can prepare yourself at home or those whose composition is based on the elements included above in the post.
Homemade isotonic drinks: a healthy alternative
Ready-made isotonic drinks are convenient, but not always ideal. That's why I often choose a homemade version - a mixture of mineral water, lemon juice, honey and salt. Stored in a thermal bottle, such a concoction is not only healthier, but also greener.
Homemade isotonic:
Ingredients:
- 500 ml of mineral water
- Juice from half a lemon
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- A pinch of salt
Preparation:
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the liquid is homogeneous and drink during training or immediately after physical activity.
Another idea:
- 200 ml of juice from a fruit (such as pineapple)
- 400 ml of cold water
- pinch of salt