When you think of electrolytes, you most likely think of brightly colored sports drinks sold in supermarkets, convenience stores, and gas stations. In reality, these sports drinks contain a hefty amount of sugar, dyes, added flavors, and preservatives. You get more sugar than electrolytes when you consume them.

What Are Electrolytes?

Electrolytes are essential minerals, including calcium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, and potassium. The term “electrolytes” refers to particles that carry positive or negative electric charges. From a nutritional standpoint, these are the vital nutrients in your sweat, blood, and urine. When potassium, sodium, or calcium dissolve in a fluid, they form electrolytes, which are positive or negative ions in metabolic processes. Electrolytes are necessary to keep the nervous system and muscles functioning. They also help to balance your internal environment.

Although drinking electrolyte-rich beverages can help fuel the body, they aren’t the only sources. You can find a variety of electrolytes in various fruits and vegetables, the top eight of which we detail below. 

Coconut Water

Coconut water refers to the clear liquid found within a young, green coconut. Some scientists refer to it as nature’s sports drink because it exhibits an impressive electrolyte composition. Coconut water offers potassium, magnesium, sodium, and calcium, all of which play critical roles in maintaining hydration, ensuring muscle and nerve function, and regulating heart function. 

Watermelon

Watermelon is the quintessential fruit of summer. Not only is it refreshing and hydrating, but it is a great natural source of electrolytes. Watermelon contains potassium, a small amount of sodium, and magnesium. Those electrolytes aid with muscle function, balancing bodily fluids, and hydration. Watermelon is also rich in other nutrients, such as vitamins A and C and lycopene, which is an antioxidant beneficial for heart health. 

Tomatoes 

Just like watermelon, tomatoes also contain lycopene, which gives them their signature red color. Tomatoes are often underestimated as a hydrating fruit, but they are naturally rich in water and electrolytes. They are great sources of potassium, which is vital for muscle contractions, nerve function, and fluid regulation. Additionally, tomatoes contain magnesium, sodium, and other antioxidants that support overall health. 

Strawberries

Strawberries are known for their great taste and impressive antioxidant content, but they also provide several electrolytes. They contain potassium, which helps nerve signaling and heart function. Strawberries also provide magnesium, which works to regulate blood sugar levels and supports muscle and nerve function. 

Pistachios

These small but mighty nuts may cost a pretty penny, but they are oh so worth it. Pistachios contain magnesium, and potassium, both of which support nerve signal transmission and blood pressure regulation. In addition to the electrolytes they provide, pistachios offer healthy fats and antioxidants. That makes these nuts a great addition to any balanced nutrition program. 

Spinach And Kale

Yet another reason to eat leafy greens, kale and spinach offer lots of magnesium and potassium. These two electrolytes work to regulate blood pressure and support overall heart function. Spinach has a mild flavor, so you can incorporate it into a variety of dishes. Kale tends to have a slightly bitter flavor, but you can tame that if you combine it with the right ingredients. Kale also offers calcium, which supports healthy bones and teeth, in addition to heart function.

Avocados

People praise avocados for their healthy fat content, but they also contain a couple electrolytes: potassium and magnesium. They even contain more potassium than bananas! Both magnesium and potassium work to maintain fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. Finally, the healthy fats in avocados are essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and provide slow-burning fuel for the body. 

Oranges

Oranges are naturally rich in vitamin C, but they also contain potassium and calcium. That combination of nutrients makes oranges great for maintaining hydration and overall health. While potassium contributes to optimal heart function and nerve signaling, calcium supports bone health and has a hand in nerve transmission and muscle function. To reap these benefits, make sure you consume fresh oranges or freshly squeezed orange juice. Do not just consume store bought orange juice and think that you will get the same benefits, because you won’t.

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Most people have seen the dark side, that is, the inevitable, lethargic, and sick feeling of a hangover that results from too much drinking. The older you get, the fewer drinks it takes to cause a hangover. You don’t simply bounce back like you did when you were in your 20s. They can hinder your daily activities and lead to symptoms that include stomach pain, nausea, light sensitivity, irritability, headache, thirst, anxiety, and even vertigo. 

Hangover symptoms peak when the body’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) returns to zero. These symptoms can last for a couple hours, a full day, or even longer. There is no cure for a hangover, but certain foods and beverages can help ease symptoms and help you feel better. This article aims to highlight the best foods and beverages to consume to ease your hangover. We won’t cover this in the following list, but water is a necessity to bring you back to life. Alcohol dehydrates the body, so rehydrating with water and electrolytes can help revive you and reduce the severity of hangover symptoms. 

Coconut Water

Yes, we just mentioned drinking water, but drinking electrolyte-rich beverages is equally important to your recovery. Coconut water contains potassium, sodium, magnesium, and phosphorus, all of which are electrolyte. Although there are no studies that indicate the direct effects of coconut water on hangovers, some research suggests that coconut water can help restore fluids lost due to illness or exercise. Drinking coconut water may help replenish electrolytes and increase hydration during a hangover. Replacing electrolytes will not get rid of the hangover, though. 

Bananas

One cup of sliced bananas contains 537 milligrams (mg) of potassium. As previously mentioned, potassium is a valuable electrolyte, and it can also help keep blood pressure levels in check. Eating a banana may help reduce hangover symptoms by replenishing electrolyte levels, although this is not scientifically backed. 

Asparagus

The flavonoids in asparagus may enhance the activity of enzymes in the body that work to break down alcohol. Research suggests that certain compounds in asparagus also work to protect the liver from the toxic effects of alcohol and other harmful substances. 

Legumes

Lentils, beans, and other legumes are rich in zinc, a mineral that can effectively metabolize alcohol. According to research, zinc helps the body metabolize alcohol more quickly, and consuming zinc-rich foods help make hangover symptoms less severe. Click here to learn about more plant-based sources of zinc. 

Mango

In studies on mice, mango was able to effectively reduce blood alcohol levels and increase alcohol metabolism. Does this translate to humans? Unfortunately, there isn’t research on how mango’s ability to do this in humans. Researchers believe that mango’s metabolites, such as fructose, may help stimulate alcohol metabolism in the body. 

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes contain a lot of vitamin A, which is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. According to nutritional data, one five-inch sweet potato contains 922 micrograms (mcg) RAE (retinol activity equivalents) of vitamin A. Because hangover symptoms are largely related to inflammation, consuming foods with anti-inflammatory properties may help. Consume sweet potatoes, turmeric, ginger, and other anti-inflammatory foods to right the ship!

Ginger

Ginger is great for both soothing an upset stomach and sore throat. Since alcohol can cause an upset stomach, adding it to your food may help reduce the severity of hangover symptoms, such as nausea or stomach pain. Ginger goes great in smoothies, in stir-fries, or even sliced and added to sparkling water. Studies show that the antioxidant properties in ginger help protect against lung, liver, and kidney changes caused by alcohol consumption.

Korean Pear Juice

It should be noted that this is on the list only because the effects were backed by a small study. Study authors noted that Korean pear juice significantly reduced the severity of hangover symptoms and helped lower blood alcohol levels. The juice improved symptoms such as memory impairment, light and sound sensitivity, and the difficulty concentrating.

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It’s not quite summer yet, but it’ll get a whole lot sweeter (and healthier) when you start drinking this hydrating, homemade lemonade. Just imagine sipping on a cool, refreshing glass of liquid sunshine. Now imagine that it doesn’t have alcohol and that you are actually nourishing your body! This coconut water lemonade three simple ingredients: freshly squeezed lemon juice, unsweetened coconut water, and grade A maple syrup.

The only thing that doesn’t make this cleanse-approved is the store bought coconut water. If you want to live dangerously, and potentially more healthy, use fresh coconut water straight from the source. Crack open some young Thai coconuts and use the water for this recipe. Because the recipe calls for four cups of coconut water, you will need quite a few coconuts, so we don’t recommend that strategy. But you have to live your truth, and if that’s the way you go then that’s the way you go. Don’t have any fear and tackle this recipe with conviction. No matter how you make it, you’ll end up with a mouthwatering concoction, which combines the sweet electrolyte-rich coconut water with the tangy punch of freshly squeezed lemonade.

Here’s the best part: this sweet, tangy, and refreshing beverage is not only a taste sensation, but also a health superstar! Coconut water provides an unbeatable boost of hydration, electrolytes, and potassium, making it great for hot summer days. The fresh lemon juice provides an extra dose of vitamin C and antioxidants to keep your skin glowing and your immune system strong. Enjoy this beverage all summer long. We hope you love it as much as we do!

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It’s not often that you get to say, “I can’t wait to dive into this bowl of raw vegan ice cream that doesn’t contain added sugars.” That’s not a sentence that people ever utter, but maybe we should change that. This mango pineapple turmeric ice cream is creamy, perfectly sweet, fruity, and mouthwateringly delicious. You’ll wish your bowl wasn’t empty after you devour your first scoop or two.

Not only do mango and pineapple provide the sweetness, but they also do wonders for your gut health. The addition of turmeric makes this raw vegan ice cream anti-inflammatory in nature. Plus, this recipe contains fresh liquid and meat from young Thai coconuts. Fresh coconut water is naturally sweet and provides electrolytes that help enhance your hydration efforts. If you cannot get your hands on a young Thai coconut in the grocery store, feel free to use a regular coconut with hard meat. The water is not as sweet, but it provides similar electrolytes and flavor. Alternatively, just use filtered water!

If you like a sweet and refreshing dessert after dinner, this is going to be your new favorite recipe. You can top it with unsweetened, desiccated coconut, raw agave nectar, berries, or any other type of fresh fruit. If you want to be experimental, feel free to blend strawberries into the ice cream. Lastly, it is sweet enough to the point where you don’t need agave nectar or maple syrup. In fact, you can even serve it to your kids as a healthy treat!

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According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), constipation is one of the most commonly reported health problems. The data suggests that about 16% of U.S. adults and one in three adults over age 60 experience constipation. Although there are over-the-counter medications available to treat constipation, not all of them are safe for everyone. That is why many people decide to turn to natural laxatives to encourage bowel regularity. 

Who Can Benefit From Natural Laxatives?

There are many laxatives available to help people who frequently experience constipation. Herbal teas, detox tinctures, pills, enemas, and more work in various ways to achieve the same result: elimination. Some laxatives are stimulant agents, while others are bulking agents or osmotic products. Natural laxatives, however, get the job done without the unpleasant side effects of over-the-counter products. 

Although over-the-counter laxatives may get the job done in the short term, they don’t fix underlying digestive issues. They may even make the body dependent on them in order to use the restroom. That is why health experts encourage people to eat more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lots of water. Additionally, it is beneficial to get sufficient sleep and practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress. If you need help promoting regular bowel movements, the following foods may be your ticket to long-term regularity. 

Water

Water is life and the benefits of drinking it are legendary. The kidneys and liver require water to operate effectively and efficiently, as these organs require water to clean the blood, produce urine, and help the body get rid of waste. If you don’t drink enough water, your risk of constipation or poor digestion is much higher. Keep things moving by drinking half your bodyweight in ounces of water every day. If you weigh 150 pounds and divide that by two to get 75, you should be drinking 75 ounces of water per day. 

Chia Seeds

Known for their omega-3 and fiber content, chia seeds have an ability to absorb water in the gastrointestinal tract. Because of that, chia seeds work similarly to a laxative. They combine with liquid to form a gelatinous substance that moves easily through the digestive tract. Make sure to enhance your fluid intake when you consume more chia seeds. Try to soak the chia seeds before adding them to a recipe or smoothie for maximum benefits. Place them in a 1:10 ratio of chia to water, let them sit for 30 minutes, and then add that to the smoothie. 

Leafy Greens

If you want to consume various vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber, and antioxidants while promoting optimal digestion, eat more leafy greens. Not only do leafy greens provide a lot of fiber, but they also contain plenty of magnesium. Magnesium is an electrolyte that naturally and safely softens stool, drawing water in from the gut. Without enough magnesium in the body, it is difficult for stool to move easily through the digestive tract. Magnesium also relaxes muscles in the digestive tract, helping you pass stools more easily. 

Coconut Water

As a quick note, make sure that you purchase 100% coconut water. A lot of coconut water varieties contain excess or added sugars, artificial colors and flavors, and other preservatives. Opt for pure coconut water for the best nutritional benefits. Coconut water can help you maintain healthy electrolyte levels, helping to clear out the urinary tract. Coconut water is a great option for some people who experience constipation because it helps loosen stools, making elimination easier. 

Fiber

If you want to eliminate with ease, you need to consume more fiber. One meta-analysis found that dietary fiber increased stool frequency in patients with constipation. Ideally, you should consume between 25-40 grams of fiber per day, with adult men requiring a little more than women and smaller individuals. Get your fiber from whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible, instead of choosing artificial fiber supplements. Great high-fiber foods include berries, apples, pears, avocados, Brussels sprouts, okra, peas, and figs. 

Aloe Vera

A lot of health experts agree that 100% pure aloe vera juice is one of the best natural laxatives in existence. Aloe vera juice contains enzymes, vitamins, electrolytes, and minerals that work to soften stool and aid digestion. Anthraquinones are compounds in aloe vera that act like laxatives because they increase intestinal water content. They also stimulate mucus secretion and increase intestinal peristalsis (contractions that break down food). Aloe vera juice also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in digestive organs. This juice may also help normalize the acid/alkaline balance in the gut, in addition to encouraging the growth of healthy digestive bacteria. 

Flaxseeds

An excellent source of fiber, flaxseeds add bulk to your stool and help it pass through the digestive tract. In addition to providing three grams of fiber per tablespoon, flaxseeds help to treat constipation and diarrhea, according to studies. Just as with chia seeds, make sure to drink a lot of water when you eat high-fiber foods like flaxseeds. Without sufficient fluid intake, you may have more bathroom troubles!

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Coconut water is a trendy beverage, as is evident by the many cartons and bottles in grocery stores. It is the clear liquid that some people refer to as the nectar of the gods. In tropical regions, coconut water has long been an integral component of diets and healthcare practices. Ayurveda, for example, used coconut water to help support urination, semen production, and digestion. Nowadays, though, people mainly drink it to boost hydration and increase electrolyte intake. 

What Is Coconut Water?

Not to be confused with coconut milk, which combines coconut water and coconut meat, coconut water is the clear liquid inside coconuts. The right coconut water exhibits a sweet, nutty flavor profile. Younger coconuts tend to have the best tasting water, whereas the water in older coconuts with hardened meat tends to be more pungent. Coconut water is low in sugar and calories and contains potassium, magnesium, and sodium. These electrolytes work to replenish nutrients you lose via sweat. Although coconut water is not a replacement for regular water, it is better than any sugary sports drink you’ll find. Continue reading to learn more about the health benefits of this delicious elixir. 

Electrolytes Galore:

Coconut water is the natural, refreshing, healthier alternative to sugary sports drinks. One cup of coconut water, for example, contains 600 milligrams (mg) of potassium. That satisfies 16% of the daily value (DV) of potassium, which works to improve muscle contractions and kidney function. Additionally, potassium also works to regulate sodium levels in the body, which may help improve heart health. Coconut water also has fewer carbohydrates than bottled sports drinks, making it an excellent choice for post-workout rehydration. 

Kidney Stone Prevention

According to U.S. health surveys, 6% of women and 11% of men experience kidney stones at least once in their lifetime. One of the best ways to avoid kidney stones is to stay hydrated. A 2018 study monitored participants without kidney stones who drank coconut water. The researchers noted that coconut water helped participants expel more citrate, chloride, and potassium during urination. That means that coconut water may help loosen stones or prevent them from forming. A 2021 study had similar findings, including the fact that coconut water may alleviate kidney damage from diabetes. 

May Lower Blood Sugar

As of now, most of the studies about this ability involve animals, not humans. For that reason, more human studies are needed to confirm the following benefits on humans. A 2015 study found that rats with diabetes were able to maintain better blood sugar control when treated with coconut water. The same study observed that the rats that were given coconut water had lower levels of hemoglobin A1c, indicating better long-term blood sugar control. A separate 2021 study on rats with diabetes found that coconut water was able to reduce blood glucose levels. Another blood sugar benefit of coconut water is that it contains magnesium, which may help improve insulin sensitivity. 

Reduce Your Added Sugar Intake

Now, there is something to clarify in regards to this benefit. If you buy coconut water from grocery stores, you have to make sure that there are no added sugars or “natural flavors” on the ingredient list. You should purchase 100% coconut water that doesn’t come from concentrate. Harmless Harvest coconut water, for example, is an excellent option that is pure coconut water. Drinking 100% coconut water ensures that you don’t consume added sugars that are commonly in sodas, bottled juices, coffee drinks, and sports drinks.

Great After Prolonged Exercise

As we mentioned earlier in this article, coconut water is an excellent source of electrolytes. Replenishing electrolytes lost during exercise can help you maintain proper fluid balance and muscle function. Vital electrolytes include potassium, calcium, sodium, and magnesium, and coconut water happens to be rich in magnesium and potassium. Several studies found that drinking coconut water post workout is more beneficial than drinking water after exercise. A 2014 study found that coconut water improved exercise capacity better than a sports drink or water!

May Help Reduce Blood Pressure

Research suggests that including more potassium in your diet can help support heart health by reducing blood pressure. Potassium works to ease tension in your blood vessel walls, which helps to reduce blood pressure. Most Americans consume more sodium than they do potassium, which can increase blood pressure and risk of stroke. Eating more potassium rich foods like coconut water can help blunt the effects of sodium.

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Making up 60% of the human body, water is necessary for you to live. It helps you flush toxins from the body, maintain a healthy weight, and contribute to regular bowel movements. When you drink enough water every day, you can experience more youthful-looking skin, optimal muscle performance, and higher energy levels. Failure to drink enough water, however, can cause adverse symptoms that contribute to an unhealthy body. 

One of the quickest ways to put the body in a mild state of dehydration is to avoid drinking water before, during, and after workouts. You lose water and electrolytes via sweat when you exercise, and dehydration can prevent you from achieving your workout goals. The amount of water in the body affects the way your muscles, cells, and even brain functions. When you properly hydrate, you may actually optimize exercise performance. 

Drinking enough water helps your blood pump more efficiently and works to cool you down more quickly. The exact amount of water you need to drink will depend on your workout and level of exertion. The temperature, humidity, location of workout, and intensity level will influence your water needs. One of the best indicators of being hydrated is by looking at the color of your urine. The goal is to have pale yellow urine, not a darker yellow. Continue reading to learn more about hydration mistakes that most people make during exercise. 

You Don’t Drink Enough Before, During, And After A Workout

Exercise experts advise people to drink about 17-20 ounces of water in the two hours leading up to a workout. Additionally, you should drink another eight ounces about 20-30 minutes before you start your workout. During a workout, aim to drink another eight ounces of water every 10-15 minutes. Once you complete your workout, drink about 12-24 ounces of water. If you had a real sweat session, you will need to drink more fluids and electrolytes, which brings us to the next mistake people make. 

You Don’t Replenish Electrolytes You Lose

On average, people lose up to half a liter of sweat every 30 minutes during exercise. This will depend on how intense the workout is and whether or not you regularly take breaks. It can rise to three or four liters of sweat per hour, especially if the metabolic rate is high. Sweat consists of mostly water, but it also contains magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium, and chloride. These minerals are electrolytes and they assist with numerous bodily functions. For example, they aid with waste removal, nutrient absorption, and water distribution. Sodium is the most prominent electrolyte you lose via sweat, so it is wise to consume electrolytes post workout, or even during a workout to counteract your loss of these minerals. 

There Is No Plan For Hydration

If you go for a jog, take a long walk, or go on a hike, you may not always bring water. This is a mistake. Always have water at the ready if you plan to engage in physical activity. Do not rely on water fountains to keep you hydrated, because they won’t. People who forget to bring water tend to get dehydrated and then guzzle water after their workout. By then, it’s too late for the body to experience the benefits of hydrating before and during your workout. Plan your hydration around your workout and you won’t put the body in a state of dehydration. 

Your Sports Drink Choice Is All Wrong

Gatorade, Pedialyte, Powerade, and Vitamin Water tend to be the go-to brands for electrolyte drinks. Unfortunately, these drinks contain a lot of sugar and may only benefit you if you are really breaking a sweat. A better electrolyte-rich beverage is coconut water because it contains sodium, manganese, potassium, and has a low sugar content. Always check the label, though, because some brands sneak added sugars into the drink. Avoid caffeinated, high-sugar energy drinks because they can actually raise blood pressure and increase the risk of dehydration. 

You Count On Thirst As An Indicator Of When To Drink

When you need fluids, the body will let you know, right? It will, but only after you are in a mild state of dehydration. The body doesn’t send you a strong signal that it needs water until you are 2% dehydrated. This degree of dehydration may not seem like it affects your health, but it is enough to negatively impact your performance. It may also make your workout seem a lot harder than it is. Don’t wait until you are thirsty because you are too late at that point and you’ll start the process of catching up. 

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This week on Top5, we’ll be telling you the Top 5 Reasons To Drink Coconut Water!

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Yogurt may be one of the best breakfast foods. It’s too bad that packaged yogurt products are replete with artificial flavors and excess sugars. You can easily make your own yogurts with natural, raw vegan ingredients. Normally, our cleanse-approved yogurt recipes use cashews or banana as the base. Both of those ingredients provide optimum creaminess, which helps replicate the texture of real yogurt.

This recipe is a game changer because raw coconut meat makes for the perfect yogurt base. Not only is it inherently sweet, but it offers a unique nuttiness that enhances the flavor of the yogurt. You will have to get your hands on some young Thai coconuts in order to make this recipe, but it’s so worth it. Make sure not to throw away the fresh coconut water because you’ll need it for the blending process.

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Sometimes, you may want to reach for an unhealthy, artificially flavored, unnaturally sugary sports drink because you think it will increase immune function or improve your workouts. Let’s get rid of that notion and focus on fueling the body with real ingredients and high quality H20!

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