Training & Nutrition - Flavored water ok?

Forgive me if this has already been discussed, but the search function doesn't seem to be working right lately. I'm wondering if flavoring your water with one of the sugar free drink mixes is ok. The label on the one I have says it has no calories, and 10 grams of sodium, with 15 grams of potassium per serving. Is this nutritionally the same as straight water (aside from the sodium and potassium, obviously), or does straight water have an advantage somehow?

I have a 5 calorie per packet drink mix I use which has potassium and sodium (from President's Choice - Superstore brand). I usually add some sort of sugar to it, preferably maltodextrin, just to add to the calorie content.

If you'd rather not add to the calories, what you're using should be fine.

same as drinking water imho !

Thanks. I'm not looking for a "refueling" type drink by the way. I just want to stay hydrated, but plain ole' water gets old after a while. I like the taste of some of the no calorie drinks, but just want to make sure it's as healthy as water, and not harmful.

Forgive me if this has already been discussed, but the search function doesn't seem to be working right lately. I'm wondering if flavoring your water with one of the sugar free drink mixes is ok. The label on the one I have says it has no calories, and 10 grams of sodium, with 15 grams of potassium per serving. Is this nutritionally the same as straight water (aside from the sodium and potassium, obviously), or does straight water have an advantage somehow?

I think you probably mean 10 milligrams of sodium. 10 grams would be something like a teaspoon and half of salt, and I think you would find that a little salty.

Electrolytes improve the absorption of water over plain water.

I think you probably mean 10 milligrams of sodium. 10 grams would be something like a teaspoon and half of salt, and I think you would find that a little salty.

Yes, you're right. I meant 10 milligrams.

Forgive me if this has already been discussed, but the search function doesn't seem to be working right lately. I'm wondering if flavoring your water with one of the sugar free drink mixes is ok. The label on the one I have says it has no calories, and 10 grams of sodium, with 15 grams of potassium per serving. Is this nutritionally the same as straight water (aside from the sodium and potassium, obviously), or does straight water have an advantage somehow?

I'm a fan of Poland Sprigs flavored carbonated water; IMO, it's much more refreshing than plain water. I bring real food on my long rides (>50 miles at ~ 15 mph) so the water is for hydation only.

You could just squeeze a lemon or lime into your water.

You can also use coconut water. It's sold in single serving sizes and I believe that there are two different flavors. It's all natural and is the perfect blend of electrolytes without all of that sugar that rots teeth.