Different carbohydrate foods have different effects on blood glucose levels. Advances in research have shown that a sports drink with 5-10% carbohydrate concentration in the form of either glucose, glucose polymer or a mixture of the two with fructose and the addition of electrolytes, in particular sodium, is well tolerated by most athletes. It is now well proven that carbohydrate intake during exercise is beneficial in supplying fuel when muscle glycogen levels are low. The sodium added to sports drinks plays two roles -  it assists in fluid absorption and replaces sodium lost in endurance exercise. One of the benefits of sports drinks often overlooked is that most athletes are prepared to drink greater quantities of a flavored beverage than plain water: the great variety available today is testimony to this.

Comparison Between Internationally Available Commercial Sports Drinks