What is the primary purpose of a sports drink?

The primary purpose of a sports drink is to replenish fluids and electrolytes lost through sweat. During physical activity, especially strenuous exercise, the body loses not only water but also essential electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride through perspiration. These electrolytes play a crucial role in muscle function and hydration. A sports drink is formulated to provide a balance of these fluids and electrolytes, aiding in hydration and helping to maintain performance levels during prolonged physical activity.

In concept, while energy boosts and weight loss could be associated with some products, they are not the main intention behind the formulation of sports drinks. Solid meals are not typically replaced by sports drinks, as they serve a different nutritional purpose. Thus, the focus of sports drinks remains on hydration and electrolyte replenishment, making option B the most accurate depiction of their primary function.