I still remember a time when water was just water. It magically came out of a tap with the simple turn of a tap. While it’s encouraging that it continues to flow freely from said device, these days there is a mind-boggling array of bottled water, not just ‘still’ or ‘sparkling’. The typical consumer is bombarded with messages from wellness companies spruiking the health benefits of enhanced water. It must be said that the average Joe should probably just stick to the traditional stuff. However, for athletes, some of these novel options may be beneficial, while others are simply gimmicky. So, let’s test the waters.
Watermelon water
The makers of ‘watermelon water’ claim that it’s packed with nutrients and is the latest superfood of note. However, a closer look reveals that perhaps the creators are pulling our leg just a tad. Dietitians don’t buy into the superfood talk anyway. Nevertheless, a quick scan of the nutritionals reveals that watermelon water has potassium, lycopene and l-citrulline. But it’s accompanied by a fair whack of sugar, too – about 8g/100ml. It’s true that in a sporting context, the L-citrulline, which is converted to L-arginine, may enhance nutrient delivery to working or recovering muscles. Plus, the energy, in the form of sugar, may help an athlete better meet their overall energy requirements. So, perhaps there is some merit to athletes drinking watermelon water, after all.
Oxygenated water
Makers of ‘oxygenated water’ have most likely forgotten that water already naturally contains oxygen. Yet advocates of oxygenated water claim that the extra oxygen can assist athletes by improving the efficiency of working muscles. Plus, some would have you believe that it even boosts immunity. Yet, there is not a shred of evidence to support these claims. The alleged health benefits of ‘oxygenated water’ are, in fact, nothing more than hot (oxygenated) air.
Coconut water
Advocates of the keto diet have long sung the praises of coconut water. One well-known celebrity chef even has his name on the packaging to prove it. While coconut water does contain some electrolytes, they’re in small doses, especially sodium. Interestingly, though, coconut water is isotonic, and because of this, it can be another choice for athletes seeking to rehydrate, perhaps with an added pinch of salt to aid hydration.
Blk water
Remarkably, ‘blk water’ is marketed as zero calorie, zero sugar, zero carb, zero caffeine, preservative free, additive free, non-GMO, gluten free and is certified organic and kosher. Sound familiar? My word limit doesn’t allow me to counter all the marketing BS.
Protein water
‘Protein water’ has some value for an athletic population. It’s another option for athletes who are lactose intolerant or those who struggle with the idea of consuming a protein shake or eating immediately after an event. On average, ‘protein water’ contains about 15g of protein per 450ml bottle. So teaming it up with a small protein snack, such as nuts or cheese and biscuits, will allow an athlete to hit their 20g suggested target of protein, post-exercise.
Hydrogen water
Proponents of the alkaline diet have long heralded ‘hydrogen water’ as a super tonic. However, the notion that we need to avoid acid-producing foods and fluids has been debunked by science. Athletes and non-athletes alike should avoid ‘hydrogen water’.
Other enhanced waters that deserve a mention are ‘hexagonal water’, ‘vitamin water’ and ‘unique water’. Obviously, for all your athletes’ hydration needs, it is important to consider individual requirements, taste preferences and cost. Some of the above-listed enhanced waters may be of benefit to an athlete. However, for the most part, traditional sports drinks and tap or bottled plain water should be a first-line approach for all hydrating purposes.
Sometimes, we really don’t need to enhance or tinker with an already premium product. I’ll drink to that!
