Thanks for the questions Matt, I hope this helps. Keep the questions coming.
CLARIFICATION: I did get a comment about this post that made a good point. Sports drinks like gatorade and powerade are really not "good" for you. They are mostly sugar water with salt in them to put it plainly. If you look in the ingredients the main ingredient is probably high fructose corn syrup (sugar) and sodium/electrolytes (salt). So these sports drinks are really not very good for you but they do provide you with quick and easy simple carbs and electrolytes.
Another better alternative would be coconut water and home made gels.
Here is the coconut water that I like the best. You can get it on Amazon with free shipping. ZICO Pure Premium Coconut Water, Natural, 11.2-Ounce Tetra Paks (Pack of 12)
The great part about coconut water is that is has the same type of potassium make up that is found in the human blood stream so it is a great alternative for re hydration. I'd stay away from some of the flavored ones as there is a lot of added sugar to them.
Home made Gel Recipe:
Soaked Chia seeds
2-3 dates
Squeeze of on lemon or lime
Add water to the proper consistency.
I would recommend using a Magic Bullet blender or a high end blender in order to get the right consistency.
Or just buy gatorade
Endurance Planet Podcast:
Skip to 5:00 for the electrolyte question.
Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast:
Nathan Thermal QuickDraw Handheld 22-Ounce Bottle Carrier
