Growing up, I played many sports. The main beverages we had on the bench calling our names were Gatorade and Vitamin Water. Not always regular water. Why though? These two had electrolytes. Not to say these two were the best options, but they were at the time. This was ten years ago, and the options today are much more diverse and lower in sugar. We hear the term "electrolytes" all the time, but I never see the proper information advertised to educate the general population. So I am going to give it a go.
What are electrolytes?
They are minerals that are essential for our health and keep our vitals in check.
What are vitals?
Blood pressure
Breathing
Pulse
Temperature
What do electrolytes do?
They help keep us hydrated.
They aide in our nerve and muscle function.
They help our body produce energy.
They regulate our heartbeat.
What are they?
Sodium
Potassium
Chloride
Calcium
Magnesium
Bicarbonate
Phosphate
Think about it. Whenever you are dehydrated, how do you feel? When I am dehydrated, I have low energy. Plain and simple. When I am playing tennis or participating in any other physical activity, I notice I start to run out of energy the more dehydrated I become. I also notice my heart is beating faster. Sometimes I even notice some muscle cramps, known as a “Charlie Horse”. The most abrupt awkward painful feeling in your calves.
Where can I get electrolytes?
Bananas
Yogurt
Avocado
Pickles
Tomatoes
Sweet potatoes
Tofu
At the end of the day, it is important for us to consume balanced meals and adequate amounts of water. Taking a multivitamin also helps. To also touch back on the beginning of this read, there are now better beverages out there for our physical activities that are much lower in sugar. Some of those options are regular water with electrolyte powder packets mixed in, Vital Proteins Collagen Water, coconut water, and Vitamin Zero to name a few.
PS: It does not hurt to drink regular water! Maybe even have a banana on the side.
Electrolyte Water Recipe:
1 squeezed lemon
1 pinch of Himalayan sea salt
½ tbsp of agave
¼ cup of mint leaves
2 cups of cold water
Let sit for 10-15 minutes. Drink and enjoy!
