Top Electrolyte Products to Keep You Hydrated During Heat Waves
Electrolyte products are a good source of hydration. Summer heat waves not only affect the South. This blistering weather condition affects a broad spectrum of states. Therefore, replenishing your body is crucial to prevent dehydration. If you’re prone to outdoor activity or workouts that cause you to sweat heavily, you need to replenish.
Jogging, mowing the yard, or playing catch with your kids are all casual outdoor activities that’ll make you sweat. What are electrolytes, and why are they so important?
Importance of Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals your body needs to function properly. The minerals they include are potassium, magnesium, sodium, calcium, and chloride. When you drink them, these minerals are absorbed into your bloodstream, producing electrical charges in your nerves and muscles. They balance pH levels, stabilize blood pressure, and normalize hydration levels.
With numerous benefits, stocking up on these during the summer is a good idea. Here are 5 recommended electrolyte replenishers.
Electrolyte Water
Since plain water doesn’t contain the minerals in electrolytes, it doesn’t replenish the minerals your body’s sweat eliminates. So, you could still end up dehydrated after drinking large amounts of water. Look for water with minerals to give your body the extra boost it needs to support hydration. Then you can continue your outdoor activities without risking heat stroke, cramps, fatigue, or dizziness.
Proopel, SmartWater, and Essentia are 3 good brands to consider.
Sports Drinks
If you work out vigorously in the gym or outdoors, you’ll want to replenish your body after sweating. Reaching for the Gatorade or Powerade is a good idea. These sports drinks are fueled with the essential minerals your body needs to replenish itself and keep it going longer. Sports drinks are ideal for professional athletes and workout enthusiasts.
These drinks are designed to restore carbohydrates and minerals quickly, energizing your system. Sports drink flavors come in a wide variety to choose from.
Coconut Water
For all natural enthusiasts, coconut water contains natural minerals like magnesium, sodium, and potassium. It’s a cool, refreshing, and flavorful drink in the summer heat and gets the job done, replenishing your body. Coconut water has lower caloric and sugar contents. So it’s a better option than sports drinks. And if you prefer no sugar at all, you can buy sugar-free coconut water.
Another benefit is that coconut water contains no artificial colors or flavors. You only get the natural, tropical taste of coconut.
Electrolyte Powder or Tablets
When you’re constantly on the go, adding electrolytes to your water saves time. The powder or tablet forms are portable and travel-ready ways to keep your body hydrated. You can keep them in your car, backpack, or purse for quick and easy access. The Liquid I.V. and NUNN brands offer flavors and formulas suited to meet different hydration needs.
Milk
Milk is a drink that may not be associated with hydration, but it also hydrates your system faster than plain water. Along with essential minerals, milk contains protein that can replenish your body well, especially after an intense workout. Whole milk or alternative milk choices, such as almond, coconut, and soy milks, are great sources to keep on hand.
They can be used in smoothies, lattes, and other coffee drinks.
Final Thoughts
Drinking electrolytes is made easy with various ways to consume these essential minerals. There’s absolutely no excuse not to keep your body replenished. Remember, plain water is not enough. If you’re exposed to heat waves or working out vigorously, reach for electrolyte water, sports drinks, or coconut water to stay hydrated.
Although overlooked when it comes to hydration, milk and milk alternatives are great choices. Don’t forget electrolyte powders or tablets if you’re traveling or on the go. Don’t let heat waves and workouts get the best of you. Get the right products to stay hydrated all summer long.
