Can I get the same hydration if I mix water with Kool-Aid?

A Answers (2)

  • AMelissa Hatton, NASM Elite Trainer, Administration, answered

    Kool-Aid mixed with water is not the same as plain water or a beverage such as Gatorade or Powerade. Kool-Aid is high in sugar or contains artificial sweetener and has little to no nutritional value. Plain water is better than Kool-Aid because it does not contain any sugar and is easy for the body to use. Water is sufficient for hydration unless you are participating in an activity that lasts longer than one hour. It that case, a beverage like Gatorade or Powerade is better as these contain electrolytes and carbohydrates to replenish your fuel stores (glycogen). Experiment with what works best for you. Some individuals experience gastrointestinal upset from Gatorade or Powerade type beverages. It may be necessary to dilute these drinks with water until your body adjusts to them. Once you become accustomed to hydrating and rehydrating with these types of beverages, you should not need to dilute them. Remember, it is not necessary to consume a beverage other than water if your activity is less than one hour. These beverages are not usually calorie-free, and should not be consumed unnecessarily.

  • ANeal Spruce, Fitness, answered on behalf of dotFIT

    The quick answer is yes because the vast majority of the mixture would be water and the small amount of Kool-Aid (KA) mix would be fairly insignificant assuming you’re not mixing it in all fluids throughout the day. Even then, water is water and you would still be hydrating from the water in the KA, but the sugar content may lead you to urinate more often, meaning you might need a little more overall fluid intake to stay hydrated. Fluid requirements for healthy sedentary adults living in temperate climates are as follows: Men 125 oz (~3qts) of water per day from all dietary sources; Women 91 oz (~2qts) of water per day from all dietary sources. About 20% of your fluid requirements will come from foods you eat. Below are the guidelines for athletes and exercisers:

    Pre-exercise Guidelines

    • On warm or humid days, drink an additional eight to 16 ounces 30 to 60 minutes before activity.

    During Exercise


    Post-exercise Guidelines

    Helpful? 1 person found this helpful.
Did You See?  Close
Does everyone need the same amount of water?