Carbohydrates have been shown to increase athletic performance and maximize endurance. This is why there are so many energy drinks, bars, and shakes available at gyms and sports stores. But what about simple sugar water? This article reveals the amazing effects that sugar water has on our body.
According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, we generally get our daily dose of sugar in soda (33% of the time) and soda (10% of the time). However, these sources are not always the best option for our body.
We decided to explore what happens to our bodies when we consume sugar water and how it can benefit us.
Benefits of Sugar Water
Sugar Water Gives Our Bodies A Quick Energy Boost
Most people know that eating too much sugar is bad for your health. While it’s true that nutritionists recommend that we get only about 10% of our daily calorie intake from sugars, there are times when our bodies demand an immediate boost in energy.
When we consume sugar water, our bodies absorb sugar molecules into the bloodstream, where they are carried by our cells and converted into energy.
Sucrose, the sugar molecule found in most store-bought table sugars, has been found to have a faster absorption rate than other types of sugar.
Research shows that the relatively simple components of sugar water can be a better source of energy than store-bought sugary drinks.
What Is Sugar Water Made Of?
Sugar water is easily made by mixing table sugar in a glass of water. However, the regular sugar we use at home actually differs from the sugars used in other sweetened beverages:
Sugary water contains sucrose, while other sweetened beverages contain glucose in combination with other sugars (fructose, cornstarch syrup, and more).
Sucrose is a disaccharide made up of 2 sugar molecules, glucose, and fructose.
A recent study in the UK shows that the way our bodies use sucrose is better and more efficient than other sugar molecules.
Why Sugar Water Is Better Than Other Sweetened Drinks
It appears that fruit juices, energy drinks, and vitamin water have the same basic components as sugar water, but this is not true. There are significant differences between sugar water and other sweetened beverages:
Store-bought sweetened beverages often contain additional ingredients, such as caffeine, flavorings, and food colors.
Sugary drinks, especially energy drinks, are expensive, while sugar water is cheap and easy to make.
Energy drinks and fruit drinks mixed with glucose can cause a mild stomach upset, while sugar water based on sucrose is easily digested in the intestines.
When Is The Best Time To Consume Sugar Water?
There are several situations when it is not only healthy, but it is necessary to boost carbohydrate intake:
- Before, during and after workouts in the gym (or at home)
- During high intensity activities such as hiking, biking, skating and more
- When you have long breaks between meals
- Whenever you need a quick boost of energy without the effects of feeling full
Recommended Sugar Water Intake
Sugary water, like all sweets, should be consumed in moderation.
For resistance exercises, like riding a bike, it is best to consume 7 tablespoons of sugar per hour. It is recommended to mix about 1.5 tablespoons with a glass of water.
For less intense workouts, it may be advisable to cut the amount in half.
If you are not exercising and just need quick help throughout the day, a maximum of 2 teaspoons per cup of water is recommended.
Think you will give sugar water a chance? Let us know in the comments below.
