Benefit of Electrolytes

Electrolytes, we hear we need them but what are they?  And, what are the benefit of electrolytes.  Find out along with a DIY electrolyte water recipe.

What are Electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals, specifically the calcium, sodium and potassium that our bodies need to function properly.  Without them, we may not feel right – especially after a sweaty workout.  But what are the benefit of electrolytes?

Benefit of Electrolytes

Electrolytes perform a number of functions in our bodies and they need to be at certain levels for that to happen.  When those levels dip, we will have trouble controlling even our muscle functions.  Not enough electrolytes can lead to fatal consequences.  That’s a bit scary but it doesn’t have to get that bad.

All we hear is ‘you need electrolytes’.  This is touted by the sports drink companies and we’re made to believe we need them and to buy from them.  One thing is true, we do need electrolytes but we don’t need to buy them from these companies because we can make our own version that is much more healthy than those brightly colored liquids.

Making your own electrolyte drink

Sure, you can easily buy electrolyte water.  There’s Trader Joe’s electrolyte water and 365 Electrolyte water but making a homemade electrolyte drink for hydration is easy.  You don’t need Whole foods electrolyte water!  Make your own – you just need a few ingredients!!

Here is my recipe for DIY Electrolyte water:

Ingredients:

• Coconut water – make sure you buy 100% coconut water.  I see cans of coconut water but read the ingredient label to make sure they don’t include extra “stuff”.   I know Whole Foods has coconut water that is 100% coconut but Trader Joe’s has some extra “stuff” in it so I don’t buy it.  All you need is 100% coconut water – that’s all!
• Honey
• Celtic salt
• Lime, lemon or orange

Putting it all together:

To make your sports drink coconut water, pour 12 ounces coconut water into a large glass.  Add about a teaspoon of honey, a pinch of salt and squeeze a wedge of your preferred citrus.  Mix to allow the honey and salt to dissolve.  And, that’s it.  You’ve made your own electrolyte sports drink for pennies compared to what you could have paid if you bought it already made.  And, you know you aren’t getting the extra sugars and colors that your body doesn’t need.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it.  My recipe for making electrolyte water.  The benefit of Electrolytes are many and there is no need to buy ready-made.  It’s much more healthy for you to make your own and your body will thank you for it by functioning properly and staying healthy in the process.

Still not convinced?  Another reason to make and drink your own electrolyte water is because it’s one of my period bloating remedies.  Need more?  Ever notice you are a little puffy?  Find out why you’re so puffy.