More often than not, drinking water throughout the day is the best way to sufficiently hydrate the body. Before we continue down a road, which may seem as though we are slandering the significance of water, let us preface it by saying that water is life’s blood; it keeps the body going. That being said, there are instances when the body requires more than water can give. For instance, if you are sick, out in the sun for hours, exercising frequently, or pregnant, the body needs electrolytes to help regulate bodily functions.
When most people think of electrolytes, they think of sugary, neon-colored sports drinks like Gatorade, Powerade, or Vitamin Water. The problem with these drinks, aside from the long list of artificial flavors, chemicals, and dyes, is that they all contain an excessive amount of sugar. The sugar can lead to excess fat storage and blood sugar spikes, causing your energy levels to waver. Another problem with these drinks is that a lot of people drink them when they aren’t exerting the energy to burn away the sugar.
The body needs to be replenished with electrolytes to ensure that everything functions optimally. For instance, the body will cramp easily when electrolyte levels are low. Electrolytes form electrically charged particles (ions) in bodily fluids, and these ions aid with nerve impulse transmission and make it possible for muscles to contract. Additionally, electrolytes help to balance blood acidity and pressure, and they work to rebuild damaged tissues.
When you sweat, the sodium and potassium electrolytes are lost. One can also lose electrolytes during bouts of vomiting or diarrhea. To maintain healthy electrolyte levels, try making the following electrolyte drinks.
The Pick-Me-Up
This is the closest you’ll get to a caffeine-free, sugar-free boost of energy. The ginger helps to increase circulation, boost the digestive process, and increase metabolism. It works in conjunction with turmeric to help you avoid the afternoon slump by naturally boosting energy levels.
Ingredients:
- Enough hot filtered water to fill your favorite mug
- 5 teaspoons raw agave syrup
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 thin slices fresh ginger root
Instructions:
- Add the honey, cardamom, turmeric, and ginger root to your mug and pour the water over everything. Stir well and enjoy during the morning or middle of the day. Drinking it at night may keep you up.
Squeeze The Day
Fresh citrus juice is one of the best ways to hydrate cells in the body and replenish vitamin C levels. By adding Himalayan salt, this drink automatically contains potassium and calcium, both of which are essential electrolytes and trace minerals that help improve muscle contraction.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 5 cups filtered water
- 1/8 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- 2 tablespoons raw agave syrup
Instructions:
- Add all of the ingredients to a sports bottle and shake well to combine the flavors. Enjoy!
Fire In The Hole
This may be the simplest electrolyte drink in existence! The lemon has alkaline properties working to maintain healthy pH levels, especially in the skin. Cayenne pepper works to increase cardiovascular movement throughout the body, in addition to improving heart health.
Ingredients:
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- ½ lemon, sliced into thin rounds
- 4 cups filtered water
Instructions:
- Add all of the ingredients to a large pitcher and mix well. Drink all of this in one day for best results.
