Gatorade was invented in 1965 by Dr. Robert Cade and a team of researchers at the University of Florida College of Medicine. The team included Dana Shires, Harry James Free, and Alejandro de Quesada. They developed the drink to help the Florida Gators football players by replenishing fluids, electrolytes, and carbohydrates lost during intense physical activity and heat exposure. The formula contained water, sodium, sugar, potassium, phosphate, and lemon juice, which helped improve athletic performance and prevent dehydration
. The invention was prompted by observations that players were losing significant amounts of water and electrolytes, which affected their performance. The drink was first tested during football practices and games in 1965 and was credited with helping the team win the 1967 Orange Bowl
. Dr. Cade led the scientific effort, mixing the ingredients to create a solution that quickly replaced lost nutrients
. Gatorade's commercial rights were acquired by Stokely-Van Camp in 1965, and it eventually became a hugely successful sports drink brand worldwide
