One of the most important aspects of endurance sports is hydration. Replacing the fluid and electrolytes we lose from exertion is key. If you remember, I kind of blew it at NYCM last month because I had no idea the extreme wind would be so dehydrating until it was too late. When I was given the opportunity to test out Phenoh 7.4 alkaline sports drink through my affiliation with Sweatpink, I was intrigued. My knowledge of acid and alkaline and their impact on the body was sketchy at best.
Why is alkaline important? Most of your body is naturally alkaline and functions best that way. When you exercise, acidic compounds (hello lactic acid) build up in your blood, contributing to fatigue and stress. The typical American diet is very acidic. Meat, dairy, grains and processed foods containing artificial colors, flavors and preservatives are all highly acidic, that’s why it’s important to balance that by eating them with lots of leafy greens. Excess acids in the body take a toll on bones, teeth, muscles, joints, connective tissue and organs. The body has to work overtime to buffer these excess acids, and the lungs, liver and kidneys may be overtaxed in the process.
I was shocked to learn that typical sports drinks are about 100x more acidic than coffee and 300,000 times more acidic than the blood. Did you know that anything more acidic than 5.5 pH promotes tooth decay?
Phenoh 7.4 Alkaline Sports Drink is the exact same pH as your blood. It’s made with just 7 natural, low-glycemic ingredients and is Paleo friendly. It contains organic aloe vera and is sweetened with organic agave nectar. Phenoh 7.4 is high in potassium with no added sodium. Plus its fortified with magnesium and Vitamin C to help boost the immune system. All this in just 30 calories per 8-oz. serving.
I drank Phenoh 7.4 before and after all three of my most recent 5ks. I found it to be lightly sweet, on the order of coconut water, and pleasantly refreshing. I felt great and performed well in all three races, however I think the true test of this product will come in warmer months when heat is an issue and in longer races when staying sufficiently hydrated is more challenging. I definitely appreciate how natural this drink is as well as its role in helping the body achieve and maintain an optimal pH balance. Try Phenoh 7.4 for yourself by ordering it here.
What’s your favorite way to hydrate and stay balanced during tough workouts?
Special thanks to Phenoh 7.4 and Fit Approach for sponsoring today’s discussion.
Lisa @ Running Out Of Wine says
I usually drink Nuun, but I am definitely intrigued by the benefits of this! Its always good to hear about the options and benefits of different sports drinks.
Annmarie says
So intrigued by this. I had no idea that most sports drinks were that acidic! Usually I drink NUUN or Cocogo when I need to hyrdrate but I don’t use them everyday.
Kovas - Midwest Multisport Life says
Thankfully I eat a lot of alkaline foods, but I really have no idea if I’m in good balance or not.
Kimberly @ Healthy Strides says
Interesting. I’m a Nuun fan but never considered the acid levels in my diet. I would do anything to clear the lactic acid in my thighs right now!
Lora says
Great post! So interesting to think about alkaline levels and how it affects your fitness!
Jamie @ couchtoironwoman says
Hmm, interesting. I definitely need to check out some hydration options. I was just doing water, but then bonked during training so I added Perform (what Ironman used) and then Gatorade. Those are both ok options, but I don’t mind trying other things. I also like Nuun for times other than training.
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home says
I was a little nervous about this product after you gave it to me, but your review makes me want to try it!
Kim says
I’m just a water drinker. Interesting about the pH of some of the drinks out there.
Mary @ Fit and Fed says
Gosh, this is so basic and yet it’s one that I struggle with– staying hydrated. I didn’t even used to drink water when I skated at all, I had some theory that I didn’t get dehydrated in the cold. That turned out to be wrong, driven home when I had a minor medical episode or two that was definitely tied to dehydration. Now, and this is going to sound really basic again, I try hard to remember to bring a water bottle with me, just plain water, to drink it during my skate, and to not forget it at the rink when I come home!
Kali says
Thanks for the great post & helpful tips! So important to stay hydrated! I had no idea how acidic sports drinks… I definitely need to switch over to something like Phenoh!
Frida says
Cool information. I haven’t considered the effects of acidic foods & beverages on my health before – definitely something I’m going to look into.
Jennifer says
Good info – I, too, was pretty shocked when I learned how unhealthy the typical sports drinks are…so happy to make a change for a more balanced life (and body)!
Jamie King says
I am OBSESSED with Phenoh, I have been drinking it after all my long runs and sweaty workouts!
Aaron Maibach says
Ever since we got Phenoh in the office, I’ve been hooked, use it for all my weight training!