What’s In Gatorade? Gators?

Well, it turns out there aren’t really gators in Gatorade.  The drink was named as such because a University of Florida coach – team name Gators – worked with a researcher to find a way to replenish fluids in his heat exhausted, wilting athletes.  And Gatorade was born.

No gators, but this popular drink does contain brominated vegetable oil. This was discovered and noted by a 15 year old girl who used to – key words, used to – claim this stuff as her drink of choice.  The first thing that hits me is that the girl is only 15 years old.  She notices this “stuff” when the rest of the world hasn’t paid any attention.

Now first, it is a “bromide,” which means “bromium” – yes, the element is in there.  That used to mean, in the days of Shakespeare, a compound that made folks sleepy. At any rate, there is considerable doubt as to its having been studied adequately.  Four months?  Two years would be more appropriate.  And it gathers in the fat?  Maybe gators would be safer. I see no particular reason to trust the FDA to watch what is going on in our foods.  At least, please read the labels!