Originally Posted by
TTron
Hi, I’ve been riding with primarily water (& Gels). I used to go with Gatorade but gets gross when hot out. I’m re-thinking my options as I hit a wall going up a 3 mile 8 - 11% hill yesterday, I had to stop for a few minutes, which was midway through a 65 miles, 4.25 hour ride. Suspect I didn’t keep up with hydration and Gel / fuel as I also got bad leg cramps at the end of the ride. This doesn’t happen, a first!! Curious if there are hydration options that really work? Or other options? Appreciate any recommendations. Thx
Often a magnesium deficiency is the root cause for muscle cramps. I take a daily supplement of magnesium and also of potassium as I do not get enough of these two key elements in my food. Lack of hydration is not the reason for muscle cramps but it is important to keep the blood flowing smoothly. There are many foods that are good sources for these two elements and they are far more bioavailable than snack drinks no matter what they are called.
I do not drink Gatorade or other soft drinks of any kind. Artificial sweeteners are not healthy in any amount and don't think for a second that if a food additive is approved by the FDA that this makes it safe.
It may help to have a comprehensive testing of your blood to see it you need to supplement your diet. When I did this I found I was very low in vitamin B and so started taking a supplement. With vitamin D the RDA is less than 1000 IU but I need to take 7000 IU to have my blood serum level in the "normal" range.