It's been awhile since I blogged. I am trying to catch up and I still need to write Alex's final mission blog but I will get to it.
There was an article in our local newspaper in August about sports drinks and all the ingredients in ones that are bought that are not so good for you. They gave a recipe for making your own. I thought this sounded great for all of the runners in my family. Who wouldn't want to have complete control of the ingredients in your mix-it-yourself thirst quencher.
The nutritional scientist who made the formula says that in most cases water is just fine but if you are working out in hour plus increments, are involved in intense athletic activities or perspire a lot you might need a little extra. Adding sodium, potassium and a small amount of nutritive sweetener can provide helpful elements and fuel that is in short supply during and after a workout. Here is his homemade recipes:
Using fresh lemon or lime juice:
1. Dissolve 3 TBSP of sugar and 1/4 tsp. of salt into 1 cup of warm water, then cool mixture by adding ice.
2. Add the juice from 3 medium lemons or limes (or a blend of the two).
3. Add water to bring the total volume up to 1.5 litres (6.3 cups).
Using a sweetened juice:
1. Use 1 1/4 cups of orange, cherry, concord grape or pomegranate juice, or any 100 percent juice that contains at least 250 milligrams of potassium per serving (check the nutritional facts label).
2. Add water to bring the total volume up to 1.5 litres (6.3 cups).
3 Stir in 1/4 tsp. of salt until dissolved.
Vary your juices to keep flavors interesting. Finally, keep in mind that your homemade sports drink is a perishable food, so keep it cool or frozen.