A randomized, cross-over trial assessing effects of beverage sodium concentration on plasma sodium concentration and plasma volume during prolonged exercise in the heat

Purpose This study assessed whether increasing sodium in a sports drink above that typical (similar to 20 mmol L-1) affects plasma sodium and volume responses during prolonged exercise in the heat. Methods Endurance trained males (N=11, 36 +/- 14 y, 75.36 +/- 5.30 kg, (V)over dotO(2max) 60 +/- 3 mL min(-1) kg(-1)) fulfilled requirements of the study including one 1-h exercise pre-trial, to estimate fluid losses (to prescribe fluid intake), and two, experimental trials (3-h or until tolerance), in random order, cycling (55% (V)over dotO(2max) , 34 degrees C, 65% RH). Beverages contained 6% carbohydrate and either 21 mmol L-1 (Low Na t ) or 60 mmol L-1 sodium (High Na+). Analyses included linear mixed models and t-tests. Results Cycling time was similar 176 +/- 9 min (Low Na+); 176 +/- 7 min (High Na+). Fluid intake was 1.12 +/- 0.19 L h(-1); 1.14 +/- 0.21 L h(-1), resp. Body mass change was - 0.53 +/- 0.40%; - 0.30 +/- 0.45%, resp. Sodium intake was 69 +/- 12 mmol; 201 +/- 40 mmol, resp. Plasma sodium concentration was greater in High Na+ than Low Na+ (p < 0.001); decreasing in Low Na+ (- 1.5 +/- 2.2 mmol L-1), increasing in High Na+ (0.8 +/- 2.4 mmol L-1) (p = 0.048, 95% CI [- 4.52, - 0.02], d = 0.99). Plasma volume decreased in Low Na+ (- 2 +/- 2%) but remained unchanged in High Na+ (0 +/- 3%) (p = 0.01, 95% CI [- 3.2, - 0.5], d = 0.80). Conclusions When conducting prolonged exercise in the heat, those who fully hydrate would benefit by increased sodium content of the beverage by improved plasma volume and sodium maintenance.

Automated summary

This study examined the impact of increasing sodium content in a sports drink on plasma sodium and volume responses during prolonged exercise in the heat. The results showed that increased sodium intake led to improved plasma volume and sodium maintenance, which is beneficial for individuals engaging in prolonged exercise in hot conditions.