Sports drinks could be banned from being marketed as healthy.

Auckland's Public Health Service is opposing changes to food regulations that would allow advertisers to claim the drinks are hydrating and can replenish carbohydrates and electrolytes.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Michael Hale says while most people are aware fizzy drinks are bad for your health, many don't know sports drinks have similar amounts of sugar.

He says few children and teens who consume the drinks would be exercising strenuously for longer than 90 minutes, where any benefit might be shown.