Which population might benefit the most from consuming sports drinks?

Competitive athletes are likely to benefit the most from consuming sports drinks due to their high levels of physical exertion and the specific physiological demands of their activities. During intense exercise or prolonged sports activity, athletes experience significant loss of fluids and electrolytes through sweating. Sports drinks are formulated to quickly replenish these lost fluids while also providing carbohydrates that can aid in energy replenishment.

These drinks typically contain a balance of water, electrolytes (such as sodium and potassium), and sugars, which help maintain hydration, support electrolyte balance, and provide a rapid source of energy. For athletes who may be training for extended periods or participating in events lasting more than an hour, the benefits of rehydration and energy replenishment from sports drinks can significantly enhance performance and recovery.

In contrast, individuals leading sedentary lifestyles, older adults with low activity, and children at rest typically do not experience the same level of fluid and electrolyte loss as competitive athletes, making the consumption of sports drinks unnecessary for their hydration needs. For these populations, water is often sufficient for hydration, as they do not have the same high energy or electrolyte requirements that athletes do during intense physical activity.