Every summer, there comes a lot of talk about keeping our bodies cool and hydrated. While all of the delicious and refreshing beverages produced by ABA member companies will help you meet the goal of hydration, we want to take a few moments to discuss one of many options available to consumers: sports drinks.

Sports drinks - like Gatorade, Powerade, Accelerade, Capri SUN Sport and All Sport, among others - are oftentimes associated with physical activity and athletic competition. In fact, these drinks were originally developed so that athletes could maintain a high performance level through a long workout or game. Through experience, you probably know that sports drinks help you to feel refreshed and reenergized. But how? Is it magic? What is different about sports drinks?

When you exercise, you lose water, electrolytes (such as potassium and sodium) and carbohydrates through the energy you use and through sweat. Sports drinks help replace these substances. While sports drinks may have been designed for athletes, you certainly don't need to be at football two-a-days or volleyball practice to consume these tasty beverages. They can be the perfect beverage after a rigorous work-out or an afternoon hike with your kids. With so many delicious varieties, you could switch up your sports drink flavor with each new activity! How about a lemon-lime after rollerblading, or a fruit punch after that strenuous walk while bargain-hunting? Grab a grape-flavored sports drink for ultimate Frisbee. Enjoy your sports drink combos- we guarantee there are plenty of options to choose from!