Dr. Krautsack’s Natural Alternatives to Common Sport Supplements In Eugene OR

Sports drinks are everywhere from the grocery store to the gas station and we have all consumed them at some point in our lives – whether active or not. The reality is, most sports drinks are overrated sugar water with a minimal amount of electrolytes (or anything beneficial for that matter) that would help in recovery before or after a workout.

Most sports drinks contain a problematic amount of sugar and artificial junk that in no way improves health or athletic performance in Eugene OR. Some researchers say these drinks can even "cancel out" the benefits of exercise for weight loss because of the amount of sugar.¹

When most people think of sports drinks they think of electrolytes, amino acids or protein, pre-workout, or some combination of the latter. Keep in mind, a healthy diet is always your best first step.

Here are my top alternatives to mainstream sports drinks and shakes.

Eugene OR Sports Drinks Alternatives: Electrolytes

Electrolytes are important. However, you’re often consuming more sugar than soda when drinking sports drinks (Gatorade® and Powerade®, for example) and doing yourself a disservice and negatively affecting your health. Coconut water is a popular alternative; however, buying and transporting it often can be expensive and impractical. Utilizing a better electrolyte product is a great way to replenish electrolytes lost from exercise or stay hydrated on a busy day.

Sports Drink Alternative Top Pick

• Ultima Replenisher

Ultima powder is my favorite sports drink alternative for electrolytes for many reasons. They are committed to making a superior product and recently removed all fillers, including maltodextrin. The product is simple but effective offering a wide variety of electrolytes and is naturally colored and sweetened (with stevia). The product comes in a variety of flavors and also comes in travel packets that are great for sporting events, hiking, hunting, backpacking trips, and many other excursions that require lightweight materials. Grape is my favorite flavor. Shop now (or pick it up at my office).

Amino Acid Alternatives

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and can be a great performance tool before or after a workout. They can also provide energy during an intermittent fasting regimen. However, most amino acid supplements come loaded with preservatives or artificial sweeteners that destroy good bacteria in the digestive tract and cause other health and performance problems down the road.