Electrolyte Replacement
Most sports drinks are artificially flavored water containing added electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals, including sodium, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphorous and potassium, which you naturally lose as you sweat. They assist in proper muscle function and must be replaced if you sweat a lot or are exercising at a relatively intense level for more than an hour. Consuming a sports drink is one of the easiest ways to restore your electrolyte balance, especially when it comes to sodium and potassium. If you go out for a stroll or do a light lifting session at the gym, you probably won't sweat enough to warrant electrolyte replacement.