When Prime Hydration became more affordable and landed en masse in South African shopping trolleys on Monday, after a massive internet build-up, social media exploded.

So what is a ‘hydration drink’ and how does it differ from energy and sports drinks?

Registered dietitian Reon van Aardt sheds some light on the topic.

“First, we need to know the difference between Prime Hydration Drink, and Prime Energy Drink. The 500ml hydration drink contains water, electrolytes, B vitamins, and branched-chain amino acids. Prime Energy drink contains 200mg caffeine per 355ml can, which is equivalent to about two to three instant coffees. Currently, only the hydration drink is available in South Africa,” Van Aardt shares.

He says we are lured into buying hydration, energy and sports drinks through clever advertising.

“These drinks claim to enhance your workout and performance, but most of us fail to understand the difference between the three.

Sports drinks

“Sports drinks are flavoured beverages that often contain carbohydrates (in the form of glucose, fructose and sucrose), electrolytes (like sodium and potassium) and sometimes other vitamins and minerals. These drinks are best suited during exercise to replace fluids lost during physical activity.

“Why are carbohydrates necessary? Carbohydrates can have performance benefits in a range of sporting events by providing a fuel source for muscles and the brain. It also contributes to the taste of sports drinks,” he explains.

Van Aardt says the sodium content of sports drinks encourages fluid intake by driving the thirst mechanism, while also increasing absorption and fluid retention.

“Sports drinks may also help with salt replacement for athletes who are heavy or salty sweaters. The addition of potassium to sports drinks helps maintain electrolyte balance and can assist with muscle contraction during exercise. Hydration drinks are similar to sports drinks, also containing electrolytes, but with varying amounts of carbohydrates or sugar.

Energy drinks

“On the other hand, energy drinks typically contain energy-enhancing ingredients (primarily sugar) and stimulants, such as caffeine and guarana, with varying amounts of other micronutrients,” he adds.

When drinking these, Van Aardt warns people to be aware of their caffeine content. “Also note that these drinks are not suitable for children and those with caffeine sensitivity. Caffeine, being a diuretic, is counterproductive for replacing body fluids lost during exercise. Thus, energy drinks usually leave you dehydrated. A person regularly using energy drinks may face caffeine withdrawal symptoms on sudden cessation. Such individuals may experience symptoms like headache, nervousness, lack of concentration and mood swings.”

Let’s compare products

So which drink is best? Van Aardt compares Prime Hydration, Energade sports drink, Powerade (zero) sports drink, and a Rehidrat Sport sachet.

“The amounts used in the table represent one Rehidrat sachet (according to mixing instructions), and 250ml (half) of the other drinks. In conclusion. Being a marathon athlete myself, a sports drink containing electrolytes and carbohydrates will be the superior option, by providing hydration and fuel for optimal performance. However, the ideal sports drink depends on personal taste preferences and individual tolerance,” he says.

When deciding which electrolyte drink is best for you, Van Aardt says one should consider the ingredients, type of electrolytes, dose, and budget that best suits your needs.

“As mentioned, sodium enhances fluid retention, keeping you more hydrated. Therefore, low-sodium drinks may not be suitable when speedy rehydration is necessary. Unfortunately, Prime Hydration Drink contains the least amount of sodium (and insufficient carbohydrates).

“Remember that sports drinks should be trialled during training rather than in competition,” he concludes.

For more information, visit their website: www.rvadietitian.co.za

Today is World Press Freedom Day.

Irma Green, Group Editor of Caxton Local Media, says the threat to local journalism has become more prevalent over the past two years.

“Even on a hyperlocal level we are experiencing an increase of events where our journalists are threatened, intimidated and withheld from reporting on stories in their communities. We do, however, act vigorously on these threats and haven’t shied away to address any of the threats made against us.

“It does have an impact on our journalists and their well-being as many of these threats are directed not only to them but also towards their families.”