When summer turns your long run into a slow simmer, your local 7-Eleven may have an unexpected solution: “Why Slushies Are the Ultimate Hack for Hot-Weather Workouts.” The story argues that frozen slurries combine several things runners may want in the heat: water for hydration, carbohydrates for fuel, and ice that could lower body temperature and perceived exertion. There are reasons to keep expectations chilled, however. Researchers still do not know how large the performance boost may be, and some athletes experience GI trouble from icy drinks. This story, “Water vs. Electrolyte Drinks: What’s Best for our Bodies,” recommends plain water before, during and after workouts lasting less than an hour. Sports drinks make more sense during prolonged strenuous exercise, so Dr. Kyle Grover suggests adding 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour during efforts beyond that threshold. He also notes that sports drinks can also supply sodium and potassium lost through sweat. In other words, a slushie may be a fun option for a long, hot workout, provided its sugar and electrolyte content match what the session actually demands. We recently explored a similarly unconventional summer remedy in “Can pickle juice really curb your cramps?” Pickle juice may help some fatigue-related cramps through its interaction with our nervous system, and electrolyte packets can add sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium when you need it on the go. Adding an electrolyte mix to a homemade slushie could cover cooling and hydration in a simple (and tasty) package – just keep water in the rotation too, since every run doesn’t require a big gulp.

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