Final answer:
Water is the recommended source of hydration after moderate exercise with minimal perspiration due to the low electrolyte loss. Sports drinks are more suitable after intense or long-duration workouts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommended source of hydration after 40-45 minutes of exercise with minimal perspiration is water. Since the exercise is not excessive and perspiration is minimal, the loss of electrolytes would also be minimal. It is important to replenish fluids after exercise to maintain adequate hydration levels, but in this scenario, the intake of electrolytes found in sports drinks may not be necessary.
For more intense or longer-duration exercise, sports drinks can help replenish not only fluids but also electrolytes and carbohydrates. Performance and endurance may be enhanced if athletes consume sports drinks, as they help to replace lost sodium and potassium and provide energy in the form of carbohydrates.