Do you need the sweet sports drinks for energy?

[Becky]

A couple of lower-sugar options for sports drinks:

Ultima Replenisher- uses stevia (all natural) as a sweetener, so very few carbs but all of the electrolytes. I tried it, but probably won't buy it again due to the taste.

Vitalyte- the stuff formerly known as Gookinaid, and then Hydralyte ERG. My favorite sports drink out there. 10 grams of carbs per 8-oz. serving, and all the electrolytes. The citrus flavor is clear, and very lightly sweetened- nothing like gatorade or similar! It's also very gentle on sensitive stomachs- no cramping or queasiness here.

Camelbak Elixir tabs- These are carb-free and artificially sweetened, but pretty tasty. A word of warning- due to the effervesence, do not put the lids on your bottles for at least 20 minutes! It will make a mess (but at least it's not a sticky mess )

Of these 3 that I've tried, I prefer the Vitalyte, although I'll periodically pick up some Elixir if I need the electrolytes but can't handle the carbs, e.g. post-ride.

Hope this helps!