Body Armor Vs Gatorade: Are They Really That Different?
Body Armor made quite the entrance into the sports drink industry in 2011, billing itself as a healthier, more natural alternative to traditional sports drinks like Gatorade. While Gatorade has been the dominant sports drink brand for over 50 years now, Body Armor certainly seems to be giving it a run for its money.
So, how do Body Armor and Gatorade compare?
Ingredients:
Gatorade contains water, sugar, dextrose, citric acid, natural and artificial flavor, salt, sodium citrate, monopotassium phosphate, gum arabic, sucrose acetate isobutyrate, glycerol ester of rosin, yellow 5 color, and brominated vegetable oil.
On the other hand, Body Armor contains water, pure cane sugar, coconut water concentrate, citric acid, dipotassium phosphate, vegetable juice (color), green tea extract, natural flavor, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), niacinamide (B3), d-alpha-tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E), pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6), cyanocobalamin (B12).
As can be seen, Body Armor has better, more natural ingredients when compared to Gatorade. Body Armor is made with coconut water, which provides natural electrolytes, and also has added vitamins and green tea extract. Gatorade, on the other hand, contains a multitude of artificial ingredients and colors.
Taste:
When it comes to taste, Gatorade offers a wide range of flavors, with its iconic citrus flavor being the most popular. Body Armor, on the other hand, has a more limited flavor palette, with popular flavors including Mixed Berry, Strawberry Banana, and Watermelon.
While taste is subjective and individual preference can vary, Body Armor has generally been praised for having a less artificial taste, while still being flavorful.
Effectiveness:
Both Body Armor and Gatorade are marketed as effective sports drinks that help to replenish electrolytes and fluids lost during physical activity. Gatorade contains sodium, potassium, and chloride, which together help to replace sodium lost through sweating and contribute to muscle function.
Body Armor, however, advertises that it contains more potassium than traditional sports drinks, which can help to prevent cramps and dehydration.
Price:
In terms of price, Gatorade is more affordable than Body Armor. Gatorade typically costs around $1.00 to $1.50 per 20-ounce bottle, while Body Armor usually retails for $1.79 to $2.00 per 16-ounce bottle.
FAQs:
Is Body Armor better than Gatorade for electrolyte replenishment?
Both Body Armor and Gatorade are effective in replenishing electrolytes and fluids lost during physical activity, but Body Armor contains more potassium, which can help to prevent cramps and dehydration.
Does Body Armor have less sugar than Gatorade?
Yes. Body Armor is made with pure cane sugar, while Gatorade contains sugar, dextrose, and high fructose corn syrup.
Which has more flavors, Gatorade, or Body Armor?
Gatorade has a wider range of flavors, with its iconic citrus flavor being the most popular. Body Armor has a more limited flavor palette, with popular flavors including Mixed Berry, Strawberry Banana, and Watermelon.
Is Body Armor more expensive than Gatorade?
Yes. Gatorade typically costs around $1.00 to $1.50 per 20-ounce bottle, while Body Armor usually retails for $1.79 to $2.00 per 16-ounce bottle.
Conclusion:
While both Body Armor and Gatorade are marketed as effective sports drinks, Body Armor has the edge when it comes to natural ingredients and added vitamins. It also contains more potassium, which can help prevent cramps and dehydration. However, Gatorade still holds the title of being the more affordable option and having a wider range of flavors. Ultimately, it comes down to individual preference and what is most important to you.