It has become a trend to carry a bottle of popular energy drinks while going to health clubs and gyms. Read this article to understand the difference between Gatorade and Powerade, and how they stack up against each other.
In this Powerade vs. Gatorade comparison, we are going to look at how these drinks help to replace lost electrolytes and maintain balanced water levels and other nutrients in our body, to keep us in top shape and at a peak performance.
But, there are many individual factors as to how much and when you should have these drinks. Sometimes just plain water can also suffice. Depending on individual goals and physical and medical conditions, the right drink can be suggested for the best results.
Gatorade vs. Powerade Nutrition Facts
Both Powerade and Gatorade are energy drinks that can help you regain lost electrolytes, minerals, and nutrients after a tiring day outdoors or after an intense workout in the gym.
What is the difference between Powerade and Gatorade? The chart below shows a comparative analysis of nutrients contained in both the drinks. For our comparison, a standard serving of 8 fl. oz. is considered.
| Type of Nutrient | Powerade | Gatorade | ||
| Prime | Perform | Recover | ||
| Total Fats | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Calories | 50 | 100 | 50 | 60 |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g | 25 g | 14 g | 7 g |
| Sodium | 100 mg | 110 mg | 110 mg | 120 mg |
| Vitamins and Minerals | 10% of your daily requirement of vitamin B3, B6, and B12 | 10% of your daily requirement of niacin, vitamin B6, and pantothenic acid | 0 | 0 |
| Potassium | 25 mg | 0 | 30 mg | 45 mg |
| Protein | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8g |
Comparison of Benefits of Gatorade vs. Powerade
Since these drinks help in the quick recovery of lost nutrients, it is not surprising to find their usage during recovery from sickness. How Powerade vs. Gatorade work during sickness is an interesting study.
In addition to providing the needed nutrients when you are losing them during a workout, Gatorade can also help replenish them when we are dehydrated due to sicknesses like diarrhea or vomiting and while we have a fever.
Powerade vs. Gatorade When Sick
Studies have shown that patients preferred the taste of Gatorade over other electrolyte-restoring drinks prescribed by doctors. The benefits of having Gatorade during sickness are immediate and often provide relief by making us feel better. So, how exactly does it work?
When we are sick and not eating well, our bodies quickly lose water, electrolytes, and sugar. And, since Gatorade is a mixture of all three of these, it helps to replace them.
The maker of Gatorade also claims that the concentrations of dissolved particles in the drink are similar to the liquid part of the blood. This results in the quick absorption of the drinks’ nutrients through our digestive tract, providing immediate relief when we lose fluids due to diarrhea.
Powerade, too, is a drink that replenishes electrolytes, carbohydrates, and vitamins lost during an intense physical activity. It comes in various flavors and calorie content. But, you should be aware that it also contains high levels of sodium and sugar that may cause more harm than benefits if consumed in excess.
A study has also suggested that Gatorade is effective in improving recovery to a normal diet in children suffering from severe stomach flu. Although it ranked the highest for taste among the children participating in the study, those who had Gatorade were seen to have a potassium deficiency, even after consuming the required amounts after 48 hours.
Powerade vs. Gatorade Taste
Both Powerade and Gatorade come in a variety of flavors. Even though their basic nutrient value remains the same, the flavors are what makes them popular. And some of them are a hit among athletes as well as exercise enthusiasts.
We have listed the top five flavors for both drink brands.
Top 5 Powerade Flavors
1. Strawberry Lemonade
It is refreshing and delicious without any after taste, which is a property that is preferred by many.
2. Orange
No drink that is used as a post-workout electrolyte replacement is better than an orange flavor.
3. Sour Lemon
For those who like it really sour and can handle the strong taste.
4. Mountain Berry
This can be argued as a popular flavor with an icy tinge to it. But, the aftertaste it leaves is not preferred by many.
5. Arctic Shatter
Yes, it may sound like an odd name, but this is also the one with a slightly less aftertaste than the grape, fruit punch, and lemon lime flavors.
Top 5 Powerade Flavors
1. Lemon Lime
The original flavor which gave it the fame and popularity. Try it and feel the acidic lemon do its thing while you rehydrate yourself.
2. Orange
Again, there is nothing that can replace a hydrating drink with orange flavor.
3. Lime Cucumber
Just the right portions of both lime and cucumber make this drink a favorite among many.
4. Fruit Punch
A mix of many fruits, this flavor is a good one if you cannot lay your hands on any of the above three.
5. Citrus Cooler
The freshness of citrus after a long workout or a day of physical activities is like orange juice after a terrible hangover. It gives you what you need.
In summary, the taste of these drinks is a matter of personal preference. And, what really matters is that lost essential nutrients are replaced by these energy drinks.
Keeping yourself hydrated during exercise and physical activities is a must. And having a flavored drink that replenishes lost electrolytes and nutrients through sweating is highly recommended. So, pick your preference and ensure you stay healthy and improve your performance with these energy drinks.
Word of Caution Before Consuming Sports Drinks
There is a word of caution here. These drinks are recommended for athletes or those who play competitive sports, or after intense workouts. However, if you exercise daily for about 45 minutes to one hour, plain water or one with fruits should suffice.
Many kids get addicted to energy drinks, and this can be harmful. So, kids or anyone who does not exercise may opt for coconut water, fruits with water, fresh lime water, or something more natural.
Sources:
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St. John, T.M., “Is Gatorade Good for You When You’re Sick?” Livestrong, December 18, 2013; http://www.livestrong.com/article/404617-is-gatorade-good-for-you-when-youre-sick/, last accessed August 25, 2017.
Jones, H., “What Are the Benefits of Drinking Powerade?” Livestrong, October 21, 2013; http://www.livestrong.com/article/492782-what-are-the-benefits-of-drinking-powerade/, last accessed August 25, 2017.
“Can Sports Drinks Rehydrate Sick Kids?” WebMD, October 31, 2015; http://www.webmd.com/children/news/20051031/can-sports-drinks-rehydrate-sick-kids, last accessed August 25, 2017.
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