Gatorade is too sugary and water is too...well...plain.
In search of a more natural drink, I have managed to fall in love with coconut water as hydration support on my long runs. Coconut water is an isotonic beverage that contains more potassium than a banana. A great assist against leg cramps, right?!! In addition, it offers magnesium as well.
I like it because it's slightly sweet, but not too sweet. I am used to carrying a Fuelbelt that would contain 2 bottles of watered down Gatorade and 2 bottles of water. I needed the water because I would eventually get sick of the sweetness of the Gatorade. I would need the Gatorade because I would get bored of the water.
I learned that I could tolerate the coconut water in all 4 bottles pretty happily.
The only thing to be weary of is that coconut water doesn't have nearly the same sodium content of Gatorade. So you may find yourself craving pretzels on long runs. I started carrying pretzels or salt packets with me as a result.
When purchasing coconut water, it is important to get the kind that doesn't contain sugar. The ones I found offered at the asian grocery stores and restaurants always have additional sugar. Actually, other than my yoga studio, I have only been able to stock up on all natural coconut water/juice at Whole Foods.
Some brands are tastier than others. My favorites include:
Amy & Brian's Coconut Juice
Zico Coconut Water
O.N.E. Coconut Water
Remember to drink it chilled. It is a great pre-, during, and post- exercise drink!
In another blog, I'll tell you how dried pineapple chunks are a great natural caloric replacement on long runs over Cliff Bloks.
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