Supplementing electrolytes has become very popular. Though there can be health benefits, when products multiply rapidly on the market, it's important to find the better choices. This “new” need for electrolyte supplementation is in part due to the use of chemical fertilizers for the last 80 years and the loss of traditional regenerative practices and also due to salt refinement and using chemical preservation in lieu of fermentation which requires brine (a salt solution). Look for locally grown regenerative agriculture to get more of your necessary minerals and electrolytes from colorful fresh produce which has had access to earths minerals. Avoid the chemical additives anywhere you can. Enjoy a TBS of organic fermented vegetables daily (kimchi, sauerkraut, ginger carrots, etc).
Ingredients to avoid if you are choosing a premixed electrolyte drink:
artificial colors
artificial flavors
artificial sweeteners
caffeine
high fructose syrup
synthetic vitamins
Choose instead:
Coconut Water with a pinch of salt.
Mineral Water is also a good option.
If looking for something that tastes sweet, choose stevia leaf or monk fruit, for low calorie or low carb options.
If you get label fatigue, look for the shortest ingredient list and a clear liquid!
Some better brands on the market are LMNT, Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets for Proactive Hydration*, Paleo Valley Essential Electrolyte Powder, Possible Whole Food Electrolyte.
*Nuun does have citric acid and dextrose so it's not our favorite choice but it is the best choice available at most box stores and groceries. It skips the artificial colors and flavors, has 2gm sugar from dextrose per serving, and uses non-gmo beet for coloring.
Another options is to make your own. We love this natural electrolyte replacer at home. It is simple, can be made in a bigger batch so you have a pitcher in the fridge for the week. It’s not as high potency as many of the manufactured options and yet it seems to quench thirst and replace energy better for us!
Lemon Honey Electrolyte Drink
Ingredients:
3 tbsp raw local honey
1/4 tsp unrefined salt (Celtic Sea Salt or Himalayan Salt)
1 cup hot water
2 tbsp lemon juice
4 cups filtered water or chilled green tea
Instructions:
Mix honey and salt in hot water until dissolved.
Add lemon juice and water or tea..
Enjoy:
Drink over ice, right away.
Drink pre/post or during a workout, heat exposure or as a refreshing drink.
Keeps well in fridge for up to 2 weeks.
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