Last Updated on April 4, 2024
Physiologically speaking, electrolytes are ions of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, hydrogen phosphate and hydrogen carbonate. They are all essential to the proper functioning of our bodies. Sodium is especially important and is involved in fluid balance and blood pressure regulation. Muscles and nerves are electric tissues. These tissues are regulated by the activity created by having different electrolyte balances inside and outside of our cells. In order for our cells to function properly a delicate balance of electrolytes needs to be maintained. For instance muscle contractions depend upon calcium, sodium and potassium. If these minerals are depleted it could lead to muscle weakness, fatigue and cramping. In recent years, companies like Pepsi and Coca Cola have paid millions in advertising campaigns to get us to believe that all athletes need to drink their sport drinks in order to maintain proper hydration and electrolyte balance. It’s just not true!
There are many fruits and vegetables, which can supply our bodies with all the nutrition they need to perform optimally, maintain proper hydration and replenish all electrolytes. By making our own electrolyte drinks we can avoid the refined sugars, brominated vegetable oils, and chemical colorants in these “sports drinks.”