Electrolytes add an electrical charge to water, which boosts your hydration. These drinks are rich in essential nutrients, including magnesium, calcium, potassium, sodium, and chloride. Invented as Gatorade in 1965, electrolytes have evolved and include supplements and powders. Essential in fluid balance and nerve and muscle contraction, they’re best consumed at certain times.
Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when your body’s fluid levels are too low for you to function normally. You lose water each day by sweating, urinating, crying, breathing, and defecating. Drinking fluids and eating foods that supply water to replenish the lost liquid is ideal. But if you’re experiencing symptoms, such as low energy and mood shifts, you may be dehydrated.
If so, your body is losing both water and electrolytes. Dehydration can be mild to severe. You’ll want to avoid severe symptoms that can be life-threatening and usually require hospitalization. At the first signs of dehydration, you need to replace the minerals lost. It’s time to drink up.
After Working Out
Excessive sweating after a workout or strenuous activity is a reason to drink them. When large amounts of fluid leave your body, it’s a sign you need to replenish. Some people naturally sweat more heavily than others. Notice your sweat levels after working out or participating in a high-energy endeavor. Also, notice if your recovery time is longer.
These may be signs that you need the added nutrients in your water. There are many types to choose from, and they’re easy to find in stores that sell water.
Energy Boost
If you feel groggy in the morning or tend to lose energy in the afternoon, energy drinks can be helpful. It’s possible to lose fluids overnight and experience energy slumps, so adding nutrients boosts your energy levels. Notice symptoms like muscle cramps, headaches, nausea, and reduced endurance. These can be indications that you need to hydrate.
Heat Wave
If you’re in an area that gets excessively hot in the summer, you probably need to pack the electrolytes. You’ll want to keep them handy, especially if you’ll be outdoors for even a small time. Heat waves can cause you to sweat, which means you’re losing vital liquids and minerals your body needs to maintain its hydration balance. So, take a bottle with you, and take small sips when you’re outside.
As soon as summertime arrives, it’s time to stock up on these drinks if you work outside, walk for exercise, or mow the lawn. Even if you’re enjoying the beach or a fun activity, remember to stay hydrated.
After Illness
If you’ve been under the weather for a while, especially with bouts of vomiting or diarrhea, it’s best to drink water with added nutrients. Fever can cause fluids to seep through your skin in an effort to bring your body temperature back to normal. Diabetes sufferers and those who consume alcohol are at a higher risk because of frequent urination. And any gastrointestinal illness can cause dehydration.
Stay on the safe side, and drink to replenish nutrients after any illness, especially prolonged ones, to keep your fluid balance at the right level.
Conclusion
Maintaining your hydration levels and knowing when to drink electrolytes are essential. Drinking for hydration keeps your body energized and functioning properly. Gatorade is now one of many sports drinks you can take advantage of. And there are a plethora of drinks offering nutrients to replenish your system. There’s no reason to be dehydrated with so many varieties and available locations to get them.
Stay alert for symptoms, and if they appear, reach for the H2O with added nutrients to maintain your energy levels for all your daily activities.
Disclaimer: This article is meant for informational and educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical or therapeutic advice. Somatic practices can be deeply supportive, but everyone’s healing journey is unique. If you’re struggling with emotional or physical symptoms, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist or healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance and support.
