Más+ by Messi: A Nutritional Analysis
Más+ by Messi is a hydration drink brand that has entered the market with the endorsement of one of the world's most famous athletes. It is marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional sports drinks, offering a blend of electrolytes, vitamins, and antioxidants with low sugar content. But does it live up to the hype?
What's in a Bottle of Más+?
The nutritional profile of Más+ varies slightly by container size, but the core ingredients and philosophy remain consistent. A standard 16.9 oz (500 mL) bottle contains:
- Electrolytes: Sodium, Magnesium, Potassium, and Calcium.
- Vitamins: A, C, E, B3, B6, and B12.
- Antioxidants: C, E, and A.
- Sweeteners: A mix of natural flavors, a small amount of cane sugar (1g), and Stevia sweetener.
- Other Ingredients: Filtered water and citric acid.
Notably, the drink is free from artificial sweeteners, colors, and caffeine, which aligns with its marketing as a "clean" hydration option.
Más+ vs. Traditional Sports Drinks
To understand the health benefits of Más+, it's helpful to compare it with traditional sports drinks like Gatorade. The main differences lie in the sugar and electrolyte content.
| Feature | Más+ by Messi (16.9oz/500mL) | Gatorade Thirst Quencher (20oz/591mL) | Gatorade Zero (20oz/591mL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 10 | 140 | <5 |
| Total Sugars | 1g | 34g | 0g |
| Sodium | 70mg | 270mg | 270mg |
| Potassium | 530mg | 80mg | 80mg |
| Artificial Sweeteners | No | No (contains sucralose) | Yes (contains sucralose and acesulfame potassium) |
| Vitamins/Antioxidants | A, C, E, B3, B6, B12 | None | None |
This comparison highlights Más+'s appeal for those seeking a low-sugar, low-calorie alternative to traditional sports drinks. While it contains less sodium than Gatorade, its potassium levels are significantly higher, which can be beneficial for those looking to replenish this specific electrolyte. The added vitamins and antioxidants also set it apart from both standard and zero-sugar alternatives.
Potential Benefits of Más+ by Messi
- Excellent for Everyday Hydration: With its low sugar and calorie count, Más+ can be a tasty way to encourage regular hydration, especially for those who find plain water unappealing.
- Replenishes Electrolytes: The blend of electrolytes, including the high dose of potassium, helps restore balance after light to moderate exercise or daily activity.
- Supports Overall Wellness: The added vitamins and antioxidants provide a small boost to daily nutrient intake.
- Clean Ingredients: The absence of artificial sweeteners, colors, and caffeine makes it a favorable option for health-conscious consumers and families.
Considerations and Potential Concerns
While Más+ offers several advantages, it's not a perfect fit for every scenario.
- For Intense Workouts: The sodium content in Más+ is lower than that of traditional sports drinks. For athletes engaged in prolonged, high-intensity workouts involving significant sweat loss, the sodium levels may not be sufficient for optimal rehydration.
- Excessive Consumption: As with any electrolyte-enhanced beverage, overconsumption can lead to an electrolyte imbalance, especially if not paired with sufficient plain water intake. Symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, fatigue, and confusion. Individuals with kidney issues should be particularly cautious.
- Sweetener Sensitivity: Although it uses natural sweeteners, some individuals have a sensitivity to Stevia, which can cause a lingering aftertaste.
- Cost: Some consumers find Más+ to be pricier than other sports drink options, especially without promotional deals.
The Verdict: Is Más+ Healthy for You?
For most people seeking a flavorful, low-sugar way to stay hydrated throughout the day, Más+ by Messi is a healthy option. Its clean ingredients, low-calorie profile, and vitamin content are a significant step up from sugary sports drinks. However, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Plain water remains the best hydration source for most daily activities, and Más+ should be considered a functional beverage for specific situations rather than a complete replacement. Athletes with high-performance needs may find the sodium content insufficient, requiring them to supplement with other sources or choose a different product. Always listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional with specific dietary concerns. The key to healthy hydration is balance, and Más+ offers a valuable, if sometimes pricey, tool for achieving it.
