NUTRITION
HYDRATION STATION We tried a variety of beverages that’ll help you stay hydrated this summer (and are more exciting than your boring glass of water). by EMMA WHALEN
It seems that every fitness, health, or beauty article ends with, “and don’t forget to drink more water!” Scientific studies supporting the importance of hydration for skin care, athletic performance, weight loss, fatigue, and pretty much any ailment are popping up everywhere. But if filling up a large glass of tap water every couple of hours isn’t exactly exciting to you, a seemingly simple health fix can become tedious. So what are your options? We’ve rounded up some new and innovative products that can make your hydration routine both interesting and effective. Sway Sparkling Water Austin-based Sway Sparkling Water brings fizz and fruit to your routine without excess sugar and calories. Sweetened with real fruit, the flavors range from 5 to 20 calories per bottle. While some sparkling waters are over-the-top sweet with artificial flavors, the natural fruit in these keeps the taste subtle and refreshing. Some flavors are more understated than others. Strawberry is a bit bland, while mango and lemon ginger pack more of a punch. Be prepared to drink it in one sitting—the twistoff top doesn’t give you much of an option to store it for later and maintain the bubbles.
Nuun Performance Seattle-based Nuun has been making natural, healthconscious electrolyte tabs since 2004. The flavored tabs turn regular water into a low-calorie sports drink. Now, Nuun has introduced Nuun Performance, a carbohydrate and electrolyte powder that provides sustained energy and hydration for long endurance training sessions. The loose powder allows you to customize the amount you consume based on your workout. (Although sessions less than 90 minutes are better served by the regular electrolyte tabs.)
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