There is a never-ending debate about the efficacy of energy drinks in the world of sports, particularly among runners. While some marathon runners vouch for it, some express doubts about its effectiveness. Notwithstanding the wide and varied views and experiences, millions of fitness enthusiasts, joggers, runners, marathoners, and athletes consider energy drinks as a part of their daily routine.
An energy drink is a beverage that contains a combination of physical and mental stimulants such as caffeine, ginseng, taurine, and so forth. Some energy drinks are different and seldom contain caffeine as it absorbs water from the cells, causing more dehydration. With so many energy drinks that claim to boost your performance levels, the secret to success lies in finding the best energy drink with the right ingredients.
First-let us focus on this pertinent question- Are energy drinks important to a runner.
If you are a marathon runner- there is absolutely no doubt- the answer is a big Yes. As a matter of fact, the importance of a supplementary energy drink can never be undermined in any kind of endurance sport. When you run in a marathon, you tend to lose many fluids through sweat, which causes an imbalance in your sodium levels. If you drink just plain water while you race, you are at a risk of developing water intoxication or hyponatremia. Excess intake of water can cause it to enter the brain leading to a range of mild to severe symptom such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, seizures, heart attack, and sometimes-even death.
The best way to avoid all these hassles is to consume a good energy drink such as Fast&Up Reload that contains electrolytes, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, and antioxidants. When we sweat heavily, we lose electrolytes such as potassium and sodium, which must be replenished during marathons or intense training. Otherwise, you tend to feel exhausted and tired half way through the race, making it impossible to run any further.
Another important reason you need energy drinks as a runner is that it replenishes your glycogen levels, which are depleted when you run long distances. When there is depletion in the glycogen levels, your muscles tend to become weak, exhaustion sets in, and you are no longer able to complete the race. It is often called “hitting the wall.”
Energy drinks are consumed for an assortment of reasons and improving brain function is only one of them. Studies reveal that good quality energy drinks improves the functions of your brain and reduces mental fatigue. It also enhances your mental focus and concentration, which is important for marathon runners.
What Must You Look for In an Energy Drink?
Electrolytes
Runners and athletes need to pump electrolytes throughout the race or training as the body perspires much more than an ordinary person. This lowers the hydration level and depletes the essential nutrients in your system causing exhaustion and muscle cramps. Dehydration can reduce the performance of a runner, which is why you need to choose an energy drink that contains electrolytes such as Fast&Up Reload.
Carbohydrates
The main source of energy for a runner will always be carbohydrates as it gives you the extra energy to complete the race. Energy drinks must contain the right amount of carbohydrates for quick replenishment of essential nutrients to stay energetic and hydrated throughout the race. Fast and Up Reload has a unique combination of fructose and maltodextrin for long lasting energy without increasing your sugar levels.
Essential vitamins
The right combination of vitamins is essential to get that boost you need all day long and while you run the race. Energy drinks have the right combination of vitamins that include vitamin C, D3, and B12. Vitamins reduce muscle soreness and fatigue which impairs your performance.
When and how often you need Energy Drinks
If you have been racing or running for more than hour, simple water is not sufficient to replenish lost fluids or regain your energy. However, if you are running a marathon, you need energy drinks to
refuel yourself. While you run a marathon, make sure to have a high quality energy drink such as Fast&Up Reload, which is a unique combination of electrolytes, carbohydrates, vitamins, and antioxidants to help you regain and replenish your body. It hydrates your body and prevents muscle cramps, which is one of the main reasons for impaired performance. Reload is also easily digestible unlike other types of energy drinks.
It is essential to hydrate your body frequently with the right kind of energy drink, as you tend to lose fluids and essential minerals while running. You need to refuel before you start the race so that you have the required energy to complete the race. You can consume 20-40 ounces of energy drinks every hour to ensure that you stay hydrated and energized throughout the race.
Choose what is right for you
Some runners find it extremely difficult to switch nutritional drinks and training plans. But remember, it will take some time for your body to adjust to a brand new energy drink. Make sure that it ticks the following points
- No stomach distress or easy to digest
- Tastes good
- Right amount of carbohydrates
- Right amount of electrolytes
- Perfect combination of vitamins and antioxidant
Conclusion
There is not even an iota of doubt that energy drinks work wonders for marathon runners and athletes. The simple reason is that it keeps them hydrated and replenishes their energy levels with the right combination of electrolytes, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It is the ideal way to hydrate your body while you indulge in strenuous exercises, which include running a marathon and several other endurance activities. Energy drinks can be consumed anytime depending on your workout. However, it is more effective when it is consumed right before the race and every hour in between to stay hydrated and replenished. Energy drinks deliver most of the promises by increasing your energy levels and maintaining it throughout the race. So, go ahead, reload your energy with Fast&Up.
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