Question:
Can Propel or Gatorade make you retain fluids?

I have been having a hell of a time staying hydrated and was told by my doctor to drink diluted Gatorade and Propel fitness water to regain my electrolytes and to rehydrate. I am just wondering if this could make you retain some fluids? I woke up 3 pounds heavier today after pounding this stuff for two days. I only had one Gatorade and the rest was Propel so I don't think that it is sugar or carbs taking their toll. It would make sense that it could have this effect based on the fact that it is meant to keep you hydrated. Just curious. Thanks! :)    — Carol S. (posted on July 10, 2003)

July 10, 2003
Hi, I wanted to say that I love Propel, but I noticed that it has 35 mg of sodium in it; I wonder that could be the cause of your weight gain. Not sure, but it's a thought...
   — Moysa B.

July 10, 2003
Absolutely, as they both contain sodium.
   — [Deactivated Member]

July 10, 2003
If your dehydrated, that extra weight is most likely rehydration. You need that fluid. But as for your question regarding retaining water, the gatorade can cause some water retention, because it does have a significant amount of sodium in it. That is why it works well with rehydration and replenishing electrolytes. As some one else said, watering it down is probably best. As for propel, 35mg of sodium is pretty minimal. That is not going to cause retention.
   — Vicki L.

July 10, 2003
You might want to try Fruit 2 O it only has 5 grams of sodium for a 16oz serving. Comes in lots of different flavors (orange is my favorite), isn't carbonated, and has no carbs.
   — Jane S.

July 10, 2003
Any water, regardless of what is in it, if you drink great amounts, will hydrate you enormously! Sodium content in Gatorade is really high, and can cause problems... the propel is lower in sodium... I'd go with that... Gatorade has way too much sugar, and THAT can cause weight gain!
   — Sharon M. B.