There is a very strong probability that you, at some point in life, have consumed a Gatorade, and, quite honestly, understandably so. They taste good, they’re refreshing as fuck, and they’re a common option for athletes to swig from during, before, or following a game of whatever sport it is they play.
I like Gatorade, but I wouldn’t say I love it. My mom didn’t tend to keep it in the fridge on a regular basis when my sister and I were kids, and I probably drink more of it now, in my adult years, than I ever did as a child. That being said, I try to avoid the stuff as much as possible, because it really isn’t the best choice for hydration.
Depending on what type of Gatorade you’re drinking, most versions are exploding with sugar. So, perhaps you’re trying to be mindful of your sugar consumption and instead opt for the sugar-free version, but, sadly, it isn’t much better; most sugar-free drinks, Gatorade or not, contain some sort of artificial sweetener to mimic the sugar flavour, and these sweeteners are often worse than regular sugar because of the harsh chemicals they contain.
There is also the issue of the dyes used in Gatorade beverages. Every website I visited detailing the contents of Gatorade conveniently states that the dyes used in the drinks, for example, Red 40 or Yellow 5, are not harmful for consumption, but this simply is not true. According to goodrx.com, “A 2012 review reported that red dye 40, yellow 5, and yellow 6 have all been found to be contaminated with carcinogens. Carcinogens are substances that may increase the risk of developing cancer.” Do your own research on Gatorade and see for yourself.
Gatorade is banned in the European Union, and while I am not surprised that they’re permitted here in North America, I do hope they’re phased out eventually. For everyone’s sake.
Photo by Shayna Douglas on Unsplash
ontheedgeofeverything 