Hydration & Electrolytes

So, everyone says you need to drink more water, you need to replace your electrolytes, but what does that all really mean? And why is it so important? Here we go...

Your body is made up of mostly water, so as we work, play, eat, sleep, we are using that water for my different tasks and processes in our bodies and it's important to replace it throughout the day. 

How much water do you need in a day? It depends on the person, your health history, physical activity level, body mass, but the general recommendation is eight, 8-oz glasses of water per day. Ask your doctor or dietitian for exact numbers.

Electrolytes – That’s A Fancy Word

Electrolytes are:

• Minerals in the blood & other fluid in the body that carry an electric charge

Electrolytes effect:

• Amount of water in the body
• pH balance of the blood
• Muscle function

Electrolyte facts:

• You lose electrolytes when you sweat
• Must be replaced by drinking fluids with electrolytes
• Water does not include electrolytes

Common electrolytes:

• Calcium
• Chloride
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Can be acids, bases, and salts

Sources of Electrolytes:

• Gatorade, Powerade - some type of sports drink
• Coconut water
• Nuun tablets (tablet that you put into water, doesn't give calories only electrolytes)
• Electrolyte pills
• Food: any food that contains any of the above minerals will be a source (examples would be: tomato juice, pickles, milk, dairy, fruits and veggies, pumpkin seeds, just to name a few, there are thousands of others!)

When should I add electrolytes or some type of sports drink?

• Exercise or training last longer than 1 hour, you can add a drink including electrolytes
• During high humidity or heat
• Anything physical activity shorter than 1 hour, isn't necessary