Isotonic drinks are very popular today. And not in vain: they are able to make up for the lack of electrolytes in our body and maintain an optimal water balance. Doctors believe that drinking an isotonic drink is more beneficial 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 a permeable membrane separates two different liquids with different compositions, due to the concentration gradient they will gradually pass into each other. The reason lies precisely in the unequal osmotic pressure. The same thing happens in our body with you, only a permeable cell membrane performs the function of the septum.
Initially, the isotonic drink and its beneficial properties were used exclusively for medical purposes. Solutions for intravenous administration were prepared on the basis of this fluid (an example is a solution of glucose or sodium chloride). But then more and more often the concept of isotonicity began to be associated with sports and fitness.
With intense sports loads, our body inevitably leaves fluid. Basically, these are hypoosmotic fluids (with a pressure lower than that of plasma) - urine and sweat. But, in addition to water, we also lose salt. With a lack of fluid from the 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, and the course of biochemical reactions is disrupted. With a loss of only 2-3% of the liquid, the performance decreases sharply. It was to solve all these problems that a special
sports drink was created
that regulates the water-salt balance.
Isotonic drinks are composed of salts of magnesium, sodium, calcium, as well as dextrins and maltodextrins. They contain 4.5% carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and biological additives. Such a cocktail has a truly magical effect - it restores strength, increases the tone and performance of the body. So those who like alcoholic cocktails may need to make a healthier choice.
But not every isotonic drink will suit everyone without exception. His choice is a purely individual matter. Quite often, the composition of the drink includes saccharin and other sweeteners. In addition to the fact that the taste of the liquid spoils from these additives, experts have long suspected their carcinogenic properties. Such isotonic drinks often can not be consumed in any case. Why do they continue to sell and buy them? As you probably already guessed, the reason is the relatively low price.
But even quality drinks have side effects: drinking them can lead to gastrointestinal upsets. Therefore, the key role is played by the reaction of the body and careful selection of the composition of the product.
An isotonic drink is not a panacea for any occasion, although sometimes it makes it much easier. But still, doctors advise the main need for liquids to satisfy with water, freshly squeezed juices and fresh dairy products.