A common topic of discussion in the Keto world, especially among newbies, is whether or not you can (or should) get your electrolytes from athletic beverages like Vitamin Water Zero or Powerade Zero.
Short answer: no, on all counts.
The problem with these drinks is that they are almost universally cheap in quality, highly processed, and filled with non-compliant ingredients and chemicals (like insulin-spiking acesulfame potassium, for example) . They also have very little in the way of electrolyte salts, so they're a very poor substitute for actually salting your food, taking your magnesium, and eating potassium-rich foods. There is really next to no benefit to your body. Don't fall into the trap of justifying a sweet taste addiction by telling yourself the electrolytes make up for it. They don't.
When we go keto, most of us get the message about eliminating junk food fairly quickly. The same principle applies to drinks! Let's keep our focus on real, whole, healthy food and drinks. Supplement in a way that will truly benefit your body, not with crappy drinks that spike your insulin and keep you addicted to sweets.
For more information on how to properly acquire electrolytes, see the following pieces at Ketovangelist.com:
Guest Post: Coach Kimmi Talks Sodium and the Ketogenic Person
Guest Post: Coach Kimmi Talks Magnesium
Guest Post: Coach Kimmi Talks Potassium and the Ketogenic Person
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