As a sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that drinking Gatorade or other sports drinks while consuming alcohol is not a foolproof way to prevent getting drunk. While these beverages do contain electrolytes that can help replenish the body's hydration levels, they do not have any special properties that can counteract or reduce the intoxicating effects of alcohol.
Alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system, impairing judgment, coordination, and cognitive function. It is absorbed into the bloodstream and metabolized by the liver, and no amount of Gatorade or electrolytes can change that process. Drinking sports drinks alongside alcoholic beverages may help to keep you hydrated to some extent, but it will not alter the rate at which alcohol is processed by the body.
However, it is important to note that staying hydrated while consuming alcohol is crucial. Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. This can contribute to the unpleasant symptoms of a hangover the next day. In this sense, drinking Gatorade or other hydrating beverages between alcoholic drinks can help maintain your hydration levels and potentially lessen the severity of a hangover.
Personally, I have found that alternating between alcoholic beverages and hydrating drinks like Gatorade or water can help me pace myself and stay more aware of my alcohol consumption. It also provides me with a refreshing break from the taste of alcohol, allowing me to enjoy the flavors of my drinks more fully. However, it is important to remember that this practice does not mitigate the effects of alcohol on the body.
To summarize, while drinking Gatorade or other sports drinks can help maintain hydration levels while consuming alcohol, they do not prevent or reduce the intoxicating effects of alcohol. It is still important to drink responsibly and be aware of your alcohol consumption to avoid negative consequences.