Have you ever had sudden, painful cramps that just don’t seem to go away? One potential cause is that you are low in potassium. Low potassium levels can also cause muscle weakness, fatigue, muscle spasms, tingling, or numbness. Heart palpitations or skipped heartbeat can be more severe symptoms of low potassium levels. 

It’s possible to fight leg cramps and other issues that stem from low potassium levels by simply increasing your potassium intake. The amount of time it takes to correct low potassium levels depends on how low they are. 

Symptoms Of Low Potassium

The only real way to know if your potassium levels are low is to take a blood test. You will get a more accurate reading of your levels via this route. That said, there are a few telltale symptoms of potassium deficiency that you should be aware of. These symptoms include:

• Muscle cramps, twitching, or severe weakness
• Heart palpitations
• Constipation
• Tingling and numbness

If potassium levels are very low, you may need to take a potassium supplement, or get an IV to elevate them back to a normal range. The quickest way to increase potassium levels in emergency situations is via an IV, which should be administered by a professional in a controlled setting. One report found that an IV can raise potassium levels within 20 to 30 minutes. If you have borderline potassium levels after a sweaty workout, you can use various foods to help bring them back up quickly. Continue reading to learn what foods and drinks may help you do that. 

Sip An Electrolyte Drink

Electrolyte-rich drinks can help replenish minerals, vitamins, and water lost via sweat or periods of diarrhea and vomiting. Not all electrolyte drinks are high in potassium, though. And you should not simply resort to sugary sports drinks to replenish electrolytes, as the preservatives, dyes, and added sugars do more harm than good. Coconut water, for example, is a great electrolyte-rich beverage, but make sure to buy one that is free of added sugars. 

Drink Some Orange Juice

Just as we said previously, the quality of the beverage matters. Many store bought orange juices contain added sugars and preservatives. Go directly to the source by juicing oranges! One cup of orange juice provides nearly 500 milligrams (mg) of potassium, which equates to 11% of the recommended daily intake (RDI). Orange juice may be a convenient way to raise potassium levels, but it tends to be high in sugar. You can also eat oranges to get the same nutrients, plus the fiber that will help the body absorb the natural sugars more slowly. You would need to eat two oranges to get the same amount of potassium as one cup of OJ.

Eat A Banana

This is a classic potassium-rich food, so eat a banana or two next time you are dealing with leg cramps. One medium banana contains 422 mg of potassium, and the potassium in bananas can increase levels within 30 to 60 minutes, per a 2012 health journal. In one study, researchers tested whether eating one or two bananas would increase potassium levels in adult athletes prone to leg cramps. Although there were mild increases in potassium levels in both groups after 30 to 60 minutes, the time it took to increase levels would not benefit an athlete experiencing cramps during competition. To avoid cramps, health experts recommend consuming potassium-rich foods regularly, especially before exercise. 

Eat Some Watermelon

Researchers note that one wedge of watermelon has 320 mg of potassium, making it a great choice for raising potassium levels. Watermelon is also a water-rich fruit (91% water), so it helps to enhance your hydration efforts. It is also rich in vitamins A & C, magnesium, and offers some iron and calcium. According to research, eating watermelon after a workout can help replace water, magnesium, and potassium that you lose via sweat. Drinking watermelon juice after a workout has been associated with reduced muscle soreness after 24 hours. 

Consider Supplementation 

If you consume all of the aforementioned items and your potassium levels remain low, you may want to consider a potassium supplement. Before you start supplementing, consult your healthcare professional to determine whether the supplement is right for you, and to understand proper dosage. The potassium you get via diet and what you supplement should not exceed the RDI, unless directed by your doctor.

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Anyone in the mood for a….mocktail? This delicious creation is going to change your holiday party game. Whether you are hosting a party or attending one, you can make this tasty beverage and enjoy yourself without the extra sugar and calories that come with traditional alcohol beverages. This is also an excellent drink to enjoy if you are a friend of Bill W (a person who belongs to the Alcoholics Anonymous program, for those who didn’t get the reference).

This refreshing non-alcoholic beverage hits all the rate notes. It is sweet yet tart and bright with a festive finish. It hits all the right notes for special holiday occasions. You can celebrate the holidays or ring in the New Year with this refreshing beverage. Planning a dry January? This drink is perfectly suited for your newly sober lifestyle. You can even drink this with your kids, so long as you let them drink sparkling water.

Although the cranberries are optional, we encourage you to incorporate them into your beverage. The reason for this twofold: they make the drink more visually stunning and they add a subtle tartness to the drink. Plus, fresh cranberries are loaded with antioxidants and have a limited window of availability in grocery stores. You can even add fresh pomegranate arils to your drink for added visual appeal. Finally, make sure that you choose 100% pure pomegranate juice, as many store bought varieties can contain a lot of added sugars. Cheers to your health!

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Don’t you feel like you have to color outside the lines and break the mold sometimes? Well, every now and then, you need to make a recipe that is slightly outside the box. This is one of those recipes and although it may seem strange and foreign, we promise that it boasts tons of flavor. Raw almonds make up the base of this recipe, but the drink gets its color and some flavor from black sesame seeds. 

The recipe for most nut milks is very simple. It is usually a 1:2 ratio where you use one cup of nuts and two cups of water. You can use that ratio and increase the measurements accordingly if you want to make a bigger batch. Ideally, you soak the almonds in water for a couple hours, or even overnight, to help soften and plump them up. Soaking almonds, or any nut for that matter, also helps release the slightly bitter taste. You can also soak black sesame seeds if you want. Just make sure that you discard the soaking liquid for both the almonds and black sesame seeds. 

Black sesame seeds have already been roasted, meaning you cannot enjoy this drink while cleansing. Black sesame seeds don’t just uniquely color this almond milk, though, they also exhibit impressive health benefits. They are high in copper, which offers anti-inflammatory properties that may ease joint pain. They are also rich in magnesium and calcium, which work to lower blood pressure and support bone health, respectively. Finally, black sesame seeds contain unique lignins, which may help reduce cholesterol. 

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If you are new to cashew milk, you are in for a serious treat. A lot of people enjoy almond milk or oat milk because they are readily available in stores. Making your own nut or seed milk is a very easy process. You just need a blender, a cheesecloth or nut milk bag, and something to store the liquid in. While a nut or seed milk is just two ingredients (the seed/nut and water), sometimes it is nice to add a little more flavor. You can do this by adding certain spices, agave nectar, or dates. In the case of this cinnamon date cashew milk, you get hints of spice from cinnamon and a richer, sweeter flavor from the dates. It’s perfect for your smoothie or to just enjoy as is. You can even put it in your coffee once you finish cleansing!

Cashew milk can be a little expensive in the stores, but you can save a little money when you make your own. Plus, making your own cashew milk means that you get to avoid thickeners, emulsifying agents, added sugars, and processed ingredients. It is better than any store bought cashew milk you will ever buy! With a whole cup of cashews in this recipe, you will incorporate some healthy fats and fiber into the nut milk. Using raw cashews not only makes this nut raw vegan, but it also helps you control the salt and flavor. If you do not have a strong blender, soak your cashews in water for a couple hours before blending. Just make sure to discard the soaking liquid before blending the cashews with the rest of the ingredients.

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Despite how integral water is to overall health, a high percentage of people are regularly in a mild state of dehydration. Water helps regulate body temperature, prevent infections, keep joints lubricated, and maintain proper organ function. When the body is properly hydrated, you are able to sleep better and improve overall mood and cognitive function. Adults who don’t drink enough water may age faster and face a higher risk of developing chronic diseases. 

In order to stay hydrated, the clear solution is to drink more water. That is a seemingly easy solution, yet many people find it difficult to drink the right amount of water every day. In general, health experts recommend drinking about 50% of your bodyweight in ounces of water per day. If you weigh 160 pounds, aim to drink between 70-80 ounces of hydrating fluids per day. You can adjust that amount based on activity levels. 

The Importance Of Hydration

Researchers at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University found that mild dehydration can impair cognitive performance. Mild dehydration can be as little as losing one to two percent of the body’s water content. This contrasts the previous belief that a person needed to have a two percent or greater body water deficit to see these cognitive effects. In addition to the cognitive benefits of water, one can also experience decreased joint pain when optimally hydrated. Cartilage in the joints contains about 80% water, so daily hydration helps lubricate the joints, reducing friction by creating cushion between bones. 

A 2020 study from Japan found that increasing daily water intake provided several benefits, including blood pressure regulation and kidney protection. Proper hydration may also dilute blood waste material and stabilize heartbeat. Research also indicates that drinking water helps the body produce sweat when overheated during activity. That cools the body down, which is an integral mechanism that helps prevent heat stroke and other heat-related conditions. Basically, staying hydrated helps the body maintain its everyday processes, so read on to learn how you can stay properly hydrated.

Drink Enough Water

If you want to hydrate the body, then you have to start with water, although water isn’t the only factor involved with hydration. As mentioned earlier in the article, you should aim to drink 50% of your bodyweight in ounces of water or hydrating fluids each day. The amount of fluids that you intake is just as important as the amount of fluids you lose. If you exercise or go outside on a hot day, you’ll lose more fluids than if you were to just sit at your desk. In those situations, you need to drink more water. You can also look at your urine as an indicator for hydration. Dark yellow means that you are in desperate need of fluids! Ideally, your urine should be very light yellow to clear. 

Balance Your Electrolytes

In addition to drinking more water, you also have to consume magnesium, calcium, potassium, and sodium, all of which are electrolytes. You can get these nutrients via fruits and vegetables, which we’ll detail in the next point. Fruits and vegetables work to combat electrolyte imbalance, which in turn aids your hydration efforts. Nowadays, though, there are many electrolyte beverages, including sports drinks and powders. Some powders are highly beneficial and contain a balanced mix of electrolytes, while others are rich in processed ingredients and added sugars. When you add electrolytes to your water, you actually reduce the amount of fluid necessary to consume during the day. This is excellent news if you plan to exercise or be outside on a hot day.

Eat More Fruits And Vegetables

Many fruits and vegetables can aid hydration efforts because they are naturally rich in water and electrolytes. One study examined the contribution fruits and vegetables had on children. Researchers noted the dietary records and urine samples of 442 school children and found that regular intake of fruits and vegetables improved hydration status. Some of the best hydrating fruits and vegetables you can eat include:

• Watermelon
• Kiwi
• Bell peppers
• Tomatoes
• Berries
• Celery
• Cucumber
• Zucchini
• Pineapple
• Radish
• Citrus fruit
• Broccoli
• Grapes
• Carrots
• Avocado

Consume Sea Salt

Whenever you use salt, try to use Himalayan salt or Celtic sea salt, as opposed to regular table salt. Sea salt exhibits a long list of benefits, many of which center around hydration. When you drink water, you also need to consume sodium and potassium. In fact, research shows that sodium and potassium enhance hydration efforts. Unlike table salt, sea salt helps the body balance water and potassium levels because of the sodium content. Sea salt also works to alkalize the body.

Avoid Dehydrating Beverages

Dehydrating beverages are very enticing, and many people are powerless to them. These dehydrating drinks include coffee, alcohol, sugary sodas and fruit juices, and energy drinks. They increase urination and electrolyte loss, which can quickly lead to dehydration if you don’t do your part to hydrate with the right beverages and foods. Sugary sodas or artificially sweetened juices can increase the risk of inflammation and other side effects like brain fog, headaches, and blood sugar fluctuations. 

Don’t Forget To Exercise

It may seem counterintuitive to exercise for hydration because that can cause the body to lose water. According to research, physical exercise increases circulation and improves electrolyte levels. Movement also delivers more nutrients to your cells. Any form of movement can support these processes, whether you engage in strength, cardiovascular, or interval training. You can even go for a walk, practice yoga, or dance to your favorite music!

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Sometimes, you find one drink that can be the saving grace of summer. This watermelon cucumber basil lemonade is that drink. Not only is it sweet, tangy, herbaceous, and refreshing as all can be, but it also helps enhance your hydration efforts. Enjoy it whether you are hanging around the pool or doing chores around the house. It makes for a healthy alternative to sugary store bought lemonades or powders that you dissolve in water. And if you are not cleansing, you can take this up a notch by adding a little sparkling water to the glass.

Both watermelon and cucumber are over 90% water, making them great fruits to eat for better hydration. Plus, both of these fruits contain vitamin C, a necessary vitamin that can help enhance immune function and boost collagen production. You definitely need both of those things as the the kids head back to school and you continue to spend time in the sun. Give your body all the help and nutrients it can handle! If you want to add an anti-inflammatory boost and a subtle kick, put about an inch of fresh ginger root in the blender. That’ll really get the juices flowing!

Watermelon contains natural sugars, eliminating the need for agave nectar or maple syrup in this recipe. The lemon and cucumber help cut the natural sweetness of the watermelon. And just when you think the layers of flavor have stopped layering, you get that kiss of basil that takes this lemonade to a new level. It is truly so refreshing, easy to make, and undoubtedly delicious. Make a bigger batch if you plan on having guests over for a end of summer party. They’ll love it!

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Summer is not complete without, you guessed it, water. When the sun is blazing, you have to hydrate at all times. Before you even think, “I’m thirsty, so I should really drink some water,” you need to hydrate. We get it, though, drinking water all day long can bore your taste buds. Rather than reaching for a sugary beverage, caffeinated beverage, or soda, opt for something that can further enhance your hydration efforts. This homemade ginger limeade is that drink!

The great thing about this recipe is that, besides it being perfectly balanced by the raw agave nectar, it is impressively refreshing. Your taste buds won’t know what hit them! The ginger adds a hint of spice, but just enough to prevent you from downing an entire pitcher of this stuff. If you have a sore throat or digestive problems, the ginger will benefit you. Studies confirm that ginger exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe a sore throat and relieve digestive discomfort.

For the lime juice, you need to freshly squeeze the limes if you want it to be cleanse-approved. Fresh lime juice offers a better flavor than a bottle of lime juice concentrate. Just make sure to use a citrus squeezer because it is farm more effective than using your hand to squeeze the limes. If you do not have a citrus squeezer, you can stick a fork into the lime and twist while you squeeze with the other hand. That will help you get as much juice out as possible. Finally, make sure that you peel and then grate the ginger. Use a zester so that you don’t have large bits of ginger root in the limeade. Cheers to your health!

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Do you want to feel unstoppable after your workouts? Do you want to maintain balanced electrolyte levels in the intense summer heat? Well, then you need this homemade watermelon electrolyte drink! Unlike store bought electrolyte drinks, this recipe does not contain an unnecessary amount of added sugars, dyes, artificial flavors, and preservatives. This is a much healthier alternative to a classic sports drink, and it puts a little pep in your step every time you drink it.

Watermelon is one of the favorite fruits of summer. Not only is it fruity, refreshing, hydrating, and delicious, but it is also a great source of electrolytes. Watermelon is mostly water, but it contains magnesium, potassium, and a small amount of sodium as well. These electrolytes can aid with muscle function, hydration, and balancing the body’s fluid levels. Additionally, watermelon contains vitamins A & C and lycopene, which is a antioxidant that benefits heart function.

Although watermelon colors this electrolyte drink a beautiful pinkish-red, it is not the only electrolyte-rich ingredient. Lemons provide lots of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and help detox the liver, balance pH levels, and boost immune function. Finally, sea salt provide sodium, which is one of the electrolytes that you quickly lose via sweat. Ingesting salt is the easiest way to replenish what you lose. Just make sure that you go for sea salt over table salt because it is less processed.

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The 4th of July is an incredibly festive time for people and an alcoholic beverage is typically within arm’s reach at any picnic or barbecue. For people in recovery, especially those new to the program, July 4th can be a difficult time to remain sober. Independence Day is a joyful holiday, but the reality is that it can remind you of old habits and the occasional unexpected emotions. How you navigate those emotions when they surface can influence how you handle the holiday. 

The primary goal is to direct your focus to things that you can do, not what you can’t do. You can have a lot of meaningful fun, enjoying outdoor activities, the beach, the lake, the pool, basketball with family, and the impressive spread of food. If, however, you are new to recovery and feel that you may succumb to the temptation, consider avoiding parties where drinking is prevalent. Get together with some sober friends or consider going to a 12 Step meeting to discuss how to manage urges, boredom, and loneliness. Below, you’ll find four expert tips to help you stay sober through 4th of July celebrations. 

Be Creative

If you get your creative juices flowing, the fun never stops! There are many opportunities to let your creative spirit lead the way on this holiday. You can engage in arts and crafts projects with your children, or nieces/nephews, or make sand castles with them on the beach. Experts say that an actively creative mind is the best defense against resisting the temptation of drugs or alcohol. If you find an art project or creative outlet that you enjoy, consider making it a 4th of July tradition! One possible tradition is to make mini movies, which you can save and rewatch each year. 

Hang Out With Sober Friends

Some people with years of sobriety under their belt have no problem hanging around substances. They have things under control and they know what to do if they get uncomfortable. If you are new to sobriety and don’t feel like testing the waters with friends who drink or use drugs, consider hanging out with sober friends this year. You can plan a picnic, watch fireworks, or have a barbecue with everyone and enjoy the day. Spending the holiday with sober friends eliminates drugs and alcohol from the equation because nobody will use them. If you do want to go to an event that will have drugs or alcohol, consider taking a sober friend as a support system. Plus, you’ll be personally accountable for both of your actions. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Say “No” 

If your friends know that you are sober and understand why you are committed to that lifestyle, they will most likely not offer you any substances. Better yet, true friends will do their best to ensure that you’re having a great time without alcohol, and they may even hold you accountable for your actions. However, some people may offer you drinks or drugs after imbibing for a while. If you attend a party as a solo sober person, don’t fear the word “no.” If you don’t feel confident in your ability to resist alcohol, though, don’t put yourself in a compromising situation yet. This is especially true for newly sober people. 

Have An Exit Strategy

Whether you are at a sober party or not, make sure to have an exit strategy in place before arriving. Holidays can occasionally be overwhelming, bringing back old memories of your past life. These memories may spark feelings that can be hard to deal with in your newly sober life. This is why you always need to set yourself up with an easy exit, no matter what the reason. You may need to drive separately, even if that means struggling to find parking. The best way to feel good about an exit strategy is to let your friends know ahead of time that you may leave at any minute. Finally, enter into the situation knowing that you need to do what’s right for you because that is the best way to live your life.

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No need to set up a lemonade stand in front of your house because this won’t even make it out there. People will drink it before you get the chance to sell it! Fresh-squeezed lemonade is one of the best beverages to enjoy during the summer months. It brings back memories of hot afternoons playing outside with your friends. Mom would pour you a glass of tart, thirst-quenching deliciousness, and it was nothing short of magical.

Mom probably wasn’t shy with the sugar, people. She probably loaded that pitcher up with a healthy amount of granulated sugar or simple syrup. This recipe takes a step in a healthier direction, replacing simple syrup with raw agave nectar. It also uses freshly squeezed lemon juice. You know, one of the best parts about getting older is that you realize how simple it is to make lemonade out of lemons. Yes, they can occasionally be pricey in the store, depending on the season, but we encourage you to befriend a neighbor or two with lemon trees. Some neighbors even leave boxes of excess lemons out because they’ll go bad if they just leave them on the tree and let them fall.

The secret to any great lemonade is establishing a little bit of sweetness that doesn’t overpower the sour punch of the lemons. Additionally, you want to evenly combine sweetener with the water and lemon juice. Make sure that you are actively stirring as you pour the agave into the pitcher. Liven up your lemonade pitcher by adding fresh lemon slices!

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