Mackenzie BeanThe truth about electrolytes and their benefits for the body
We thought we’d heard it all: water with lemon or vinegar, chlorophyll water. But according to wellness experts, the answer to annoying bloating and water retention may be a simple mixture of water and salt on an empty stomach.
“To better understand why electrolyte drinks are now gaining popularity, we need to recognize that 75% of us can be dehydrated – the consequences of this can be very different: from loss of energy to headaches and even inflammation,” explains nutritionist Natalia Riverdo.
What are electrolytes and why are they needed by our body?
It all starts with water. We know how important it is to drink enough of it: from its effects on digestion, skin health and detoxification, to cognitive performance and energy production, replenishing your water supply is critical. However, many people don’t know that electrically charged minerals called electrolytes also play a critical role in the body’s hydration process.
“The adult body is about 60% water, and about 40% is inside cells: it gives them shape and structure and is used for metabolic processes. Without water, cells become dehydrated and cannot function optimally, so we must constantly replenish them. Electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium) transport water into cells and help maintain balance. These minerals conduct electrical impulses that the body needs for many other processes, including nourishing the nervous system and muscles, maintaining stable pH levels and blood pressure,” says Natalia Riverdo.
Who should take electrolyte supplements?
People fall into two categories: those who drink little water throughout the day (and often rely on coffee or tea as their only source of fluid), and those who drink large amounts of water without enough minerals (and thus further dilute their mineral status).
In ancient times, when we were hunter-gatherers, we obtained electrolytes through mineral-rich water; today it is no longer available. These minerals can also be obtained from food (from foods such as coconut water, meat, spinach, kale, avocado, watermelon, bananas, almonds, olives and broccoli), but those who do not have a balanced diet may be deficient in electrolytes.
“The amount of electrolytes we need depends on factors such as age, activity level, fluid intake and even the climate in which we live. Intense exercise, air travel, hot weather, alcohol consumption, sauna use, low-carb diets and fasting can all lead to loss of electrolytes. In these cases, their use can provide support and restore strength,” says Natalia Riverdo.
Why electrolytes are better in the morning
During sleep, the body does not have the opportunity to take in liquid, and while we sleep, our body and brain need to recover, rejuvenate and remove toxins, using water reserves for these processes.
“The color of your urine in the morning can be a good indicator of dehydration: the darker it is, the more you need to drink. A large glass of filtered water with added electrolytes will allow you to replenish your energy and start the day with optimal hydration,” emphasizes Natalia.
Associated Press
Johanna Liander
Sophie Rosemont
Alexis Parker