Isotonic drink: help, but not a panacea

Isotonic drinks are very popular today. And not in vain: they are able to fill the lack of electrolytes in our body and maintain the optimal water balance. Doctors believe that it is more useful to drink an isotonic drink than a glass of plain water. After all, this fluid is characterized by exactly the same osmotic pressure as our blood plasma.

How does osmosis occur? When the permeable membrane separates two different liquids with different compositions, because of the concentration gradient, they will gradually move into each other. The reason lies just in unequal osmotic pressure. The same thing happens in our body, only the function of the septum is performed by the permeable cell membrane.

Initially, the isotonic drink and its beneficial properties were used exclusively for medical purposes. On the basis of this liquid, solutions for intravenous administration (for example, a solution of glucose or sodium chloride) were prepared . But then more and more often the notion of isotonicity began to be associated with sports and fitness.

With intense sports loads, our body inevitably leaves the liquid. Basically, it is hypo-osmotic fluid (with a pressure lower than that of plasma) - urine and sweat. But, in addition to water, we are deprived of salt. With a shortage of fluid intake from outside, the amount of substances dissolved in the plasma increases, and this most negatively affects the circulatory system. Our blood becomes viscous, its gas exchange worsens, the load on the cardiovascular system increases, the course of biochemical reactions is disrupted. With the loss of only 2-3% of the liquid, the operability is sharply reduced. It was to solve all these problems and was created a special sports drink that regulates the water-salt balance.

Isotonic drinks consist of salts of magnesium, sodium, calcium, and also dextrins and maltodextrins. They contain 4.5% carbohydrates, vitamins, micronutrients and biological supplements. This cocktail has a truly magical effect - restores strength, increases the tone and performance of the body. So for those who like alcoholic cocktails, perhaps it is worth making a healthier choice.

But not every isotonic drink will suit everyone without exception. His choice is purely individual. Quite often, the composition of the drink includes saccharin and other sweeteners. In addition, that from these additives the taste of the liquid is spoiled, so the experts have long had a suspicion of their carcinogenic properties. Such isotonic drinks can often not be consumed in any way. Why do they continue to sell and buy? As you probably already guessed, the reason - in a relatively low price.

But even quality drinks have side effects: their use can lead to gastrointestinal disorders. Therefore, the key role is played by the body's reaction and careful selection of the composition of the product.

Isotonic drink is not a panacea for any occasion of life, although it sometimes makes it much easier. But all the same, doctors advise the main need for a liquid to satisfy water, freshly squeezed juices and fresh dairy products.