Research Summaries
In addition to testing in the micro-gravity of outer space,
NASA scientists also conducted multiple studies (with athletes) to assess the efficacy of the patented formula.
Among the dozens of published studies, the following are some of the most relevant summaries:
NASA-issued technical memoranda provide scientific support for the electrolyte formula.
The formula provides greater endurance (over 20% more) when compared with water or carb-containing beverages during high-intensity 30-minute exercise
Study Title: Drink Composition and Cycle-Ergometer Endurance in Men: Carbohydrate, Na+, Osmolality
As carbohydrates are burned, their osmotic benefits diminish so the tested carbohydrate(sugar)-beverages are less efficient at rehydration.
Isotonic sodium solutions are more effective for restoring and increasing plasma volume than dilute sodium solutions.
Study Title: Vascular Uptake of Rehydration Fluids in Hypohydrated Men at Rest and Exercise(Exercise for 70 minutes at about 70% VO2 max)or Click to Download PDF
The formula maintained plasma volume at rest and during 70-minutes of exercise whereas carbohydrate products did not
Other NASA Research Includes:
The formulation raised resting plasma volume significantly more than carbohydrate-containing beverages and maintained it better during a 70-minute exercise session
Study Title: Hypervolemia in Men from Fluid Ingestion at Rest and During Exercise (Based on 70 minutes of exercise)or Click to Download PDF
After 10 hours at 9,000+ feet of elevation, plasma volume was better maintained by the patented formula than water or carbohydrate-containing beverages
Study Title: Sodium Chloride-Citrate Beverages Attenuate Hypovolemia in Men Resting 12 Hours at 2800 m Altitude (nearly 9,200 ft)
ADDITIONAL RESEARCH (Conducted outside NASA)
Among trained female cyclists, drinking high sodium beverage (The Right Stuff) raises plasma volume before and persists during exercise and is associated with improved physiological status and exercise capacity along with decreased cardiac strain compared with low sodium sports drinks in warm weather conditions.
This study is the first to investigate effects of an acute sodium load on exercise tolerance and physiological strain of endurance-trained female cyclists.
Study Title: Pre-exercise sodium loading aids fluid balance and endurance for women exercising in the heat, J Appl Physiol (April 26, 2007);S. Sims, Rehrer, Bell, and Cotter (NOTE: right-click to download)
Among trained male runners, drinking high sodium (with sodium citrate) beverage (The Right Stuff) raises plasma volume before and persists during exercise and is associated with improved physiological tolerance and exercise capacity compared with low sodium sports drinks in warm weather conditions.
Study Title: Sodium Loading Aids Fluid Balance and Reduces Physiological Strain of Trained Men Exercising in the Heat: FULL WRITE UP or ABSTRACT
Other Issue:
Thirst, drinking behavior and "Involuntary Dehydration"
Involuntary dehydration (delay in full restoration of a body water deficit by drinking) occurs primarily in humans when exposed to various stresses (e.g., exercise, heat, altitude). The level of involuntary dehydration is approximately proportional to the degree of total stress imposed on the body.
