Comparison of a Sucrose-Based and Rice-Based Sports Beverage on Hydration Status During a 19.3-km Foot March in ROTC...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Maintaining optimal hydration is crucial for athletic performance and military readiness.
• Traditional sports beverages often contain sucrose, which may contribute to gastrointestinal distress in some individuals.
• Alternative carbohydrate sources are being explored for sports nutrition applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of a rice-based sports beverage (RB) versus a sucrose-based sports beverage (SB) in maintaining hydration status.
• To assess the impact of these beverages on perceived exertion and gastrointestinal discomfort during a prolonged physical activity.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets participated in a 19.3-km foot march.
• Participants were randomized to consume either RB or SB (2.84 L total) throughout the march.
• Hydration status was assessed using pre- and post-urine specific gravity (USG) and body mass changes.
• Subjective ratings of perceived exertion and gastrointestinal discomfort were collected via survey.

Main Results:

• Both RB and SB significantly improved hydration status from pre- to post-march (p = 0.04).
• No significant difference in hydration status was observed between the RB and SB groups (p = 0.92).
• Perceived exertion and gastrointestinal discomfort ratings were similar between the two beverage groups.

Conclusions:

• A rice-based sports beverage is as effective as a sucrose-based sports beverage in maintaining hydration during a 19.3-km foot march.
• The rice-based beverage may offer a potential advantage by reducing gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Athletes and military personnel can achieve adequate fluid balance with a lower-calorie, lower-carbohydrate rice-based option.