Sports drinks prevent both dehydration and water intoxication.
Many golf resorts are located in desert areas like Palm Springs, California, or Scottsdale, Arizona. During late spring to early fall, temperatures in these areas commonly exceed 100°F (40°C). In this type of heat, two serious physical conditions can occur: dehydration and water intoxication. Golfers playing in desert heat may be susceptible to either.
Dehydration is caused by failing to "rehydrate" yourself (drink water). Early symptoms of dehydration are low urination and loss of thirst. These symptoms can quickly progress to extreme fatigue and nausea. To prevent dehydration, make certain you rehydrate with a water-based beverage at every tee. (Note: Alcohol tends to dehydrate you further.)
Another problem associated with desert heat is water intoxication (hyponatremia), too much water in the body. The main symptom is this: although you may be drinking plenty of water, it "goes right through you" and you have to urinate excessively. Water intoxication is caused by loss of electrolytes due to drinking too much fluid without taking in any salts. To replenish your body's electrolytes, make certain you either eat salty foods as you play or that you drink "sports drinks" (for example, Gatorade™) that contain salt and other electrolytes.
Note: Consuming sports drinks helps to prevent both dehydration and water intoxication.
