I sometimes get asked by clients about my thoughts on electrolyte drinks (and tablets, powders etc.) And until a few months ago I always had the same answer, “unless you are exercising intensively, there’s no need.” And while I’m still singing that general tune, there have definitely been times that folks (including myself) could benefit from an electrolyte solution.
But a quick review…what are electrolytes?
Electrolytes are minerals that conduct electricity when dissolved in water and they are your body’s electricity carriers. Sodium, potassium, chlorine, calcium, magnesium and phosphate. The energy they give off is crucial for functions in your body like, controlling fluid balance, regulating blood pressure, helping the muscles in your body contract (including that important heart muscle), and maintaining the correct pH in your blood–all super important functions!
When you are low or deficient in electrolytes, the energy output is also low and you will experience symptoms like muscle contractions, irregular heartbeats, fatigue, brain fog, frequent urination, feeling dizzy upon standing and not sweating well.
If you experience any of these symptoms then you can try drinking an electrolyte solution to see if it helps. Personally, I drink a ton of water-probably borderline too much, and once in awhile, drinking electrolytes really helps me not feel fatigued and dizzy. Also, this is the time of year when so many folks are getting sick with stomach bugs and fevers–this would be another great time to take in some extra electrolytes. The problem is (well, my problem is) that most of these drinks and tablets are loaded with artificial sweeteners, dyes and lots and lots of sugar. I like this recipe because the juice from the orange adds some sweetness but it doesn’t overwhelm the drink.
SERVING SIZE
- 4 cups
INGREDIENTS
-
1 quart unsweetened coconut water
-
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
-
Juice of 1 orange
-
Juice of 1 lemon
DIRECTIONS
- Combine everything and enjoy!
