Background: Sports drinks are a growing and very lucrative industry, however the evidence for the benefits of sports drinks on exercise performance remains unclear. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of a carbohydrate-electrolyte sports drink (Lucozade Sport) on performance enhancement and endurance.
Methods: This study is a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised controlled trial comparing the effect of a carbohydrate- electrolyte solution compared with a placebo solution. Performance will be assed using an individualised treadmill protocol structured to induce exhaustion in 7 to 10 mins. The primary endpoints will be the total number of steps taken and total distance covered. Assessments of blood pressure and heart rate will be recorded at baseline and at follow-up. Body Mass Index (BMI), fitness levels, health state, use of sports drinks will be assessed and an expectancy questionnaire will be administered to determine sports drink beliefs.
Conclusion: The protocol was approved by the University College Cork Social Research Ethics Committee. The trial will end in March 2017.