Found naturally in the body, electrolytes are minerals that the body requires for normal functions and fluid balance. Cells use electrolytes to help maintain electrical currents between the muscles and nerves, be it for managing heart rhythm, muscle contractions, or brain function. The body needs electrolytes in order to prevent muscle cramping, but mostly to keep the body from shutting down.
The body loses electrolytes via sweat, and parents must ensure that children who are playing all the time replenish their electrolytes, especially during warmer months. While water is a necessary component to optimal physical health, overconsumption of water can flood the cells and evict the electrolytes, which muscles, tissues, and nerves need to function properly. Drink half your bodyweight in ounces of water for optimal hydration, but focus on ingredients that are naturally rich in electrolytes to refuel the cells with these essential minerals and vitamins.
The Unhealthy Electrolytes You Don’t Need
When people think of electrolytes, they immediately think of Powerade, Gatorade, and other popular sport’s drinks. These drinks are dangerous for your health because they are often rich in high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, red 40, blue 1, sucrose syrup, and monopotassium phosphate. Rather than subjecting your body to these toxins, consume DIY drinks that contain great sources of natural electrolytes. Celtic sea salt, raw honey, hibiscus tea, and 100% pure coconut water are all rich in electrolytes, and they’re in the following recipes.
Lime Cooler
Ingredients:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- ½ teaspoon Celtic sea salt
- 2-4 tablespoons raw honey
- ½ gallon filtered water
Instructions:
- Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir well.
- Refrigerate before serving. Enjoy!
Coconut Lemon Sports Drink
Ingredients:
- 3 cups 100% pure coconut water (no additives or preservatives)
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1-2 cups filtered water
- ¼ teaspoon Celtic sea salt
- 2-3 tablespoons raw honey
Instructions:
- Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir well.
- Refrigerate before serving. Enjoy!
Fruit Punch
Ingredients:
- 7 cups hibiscus tea (use 7 tea bags to brew and a large pot to brew this amount)
- 2-4 tablespoons raw honey
- ½ teaspoon Celtic sea salt
Instructions:
- After brewing the hibiscus tea, remove the tea bags and pour it, along with the rest of the ingredients, in a large pitcher and stir well.
- Refrigerate before serving. Enjoy!
