Final answer:
Sports drinks restore fluids and electrolytes lost in sweat, promote hydration, and can provide energy to muscles, thus they are effective for preventing heat illnesses during physical activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the prevention of heat illnesses, it is true that sports drinks used in fluid replacement restore both fluids and electrolytes that are lost in sweat. Contrary to causing the body to lose fluids, the small amount of sodium present in sports drinks helps promote fluid uptake in the small intestine, thereby improving hydration. Sports drinks provide an important balance of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, which are essential for nerve impulse conduction, muscle contractions, and maintaining water balance in the body. They can also provide energy to the working muscles in the form of carbohydrates. Tailored for rehydration, these beverages can be a good choice for achieving the recommended fluid intake and can enhance performance and endurance by preventing fatigue during physical exertion.