Certain folks, like exercise physiologists, have been saying this about Gatorade since sometime in the 80's. To me, Gatorade is a beverage first, a sport drink second. All the sugar and sodium are there primarily to enhance its flavor and sell more Gatorade, not to be the best sports drink. I also have problems drinking a large amount of Gatorade, and other ETS members have mentioned a similar experience over the years. I recall someone mentioning their Gatorade experience while deployed in Iraq and how they feel bloated. That happens to me, too.

If I'm drinking Gatorade for serious hydration purposes, I also dilute it by half with plain water. But ideally, I would drink something else. My personal favorite is Vitalyte.