Whether you are playing any sport, working out, or travelling for long hours, you might feel a little dizzy. You probably intake lots of water but still not feeling energetic. This happens because your body loses excess body fluids. At this time, it is essential to take electrolyte drinks to instantly boost your energy.
In summer, the soaring temperature leaves everyone feeling sweaty, fatigued, dizzy, and messed up. Electrolyte drinks keep your body cool, hydrated, and fresh.
This article gives you all information you need to know about electrolytes and electrolyte drinks.
What are electrolytes?
In our daily life, we intake minerals through food and other health drinks to get energy. These minerals are called electrolytes. Such minerals contain electrically charged ions dissolved in water.
The electrolyte helps the body to function properly. But simultaneously, our body excretes those in the form of sweat, urine, and tears. So we need to intake it when required.
Our body requires six electrolytes. They are calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, phosphorous, and chloride.
Electrolyte comes in two forms- fluid and powered. You can purchase anyone. If you buy powdered, you need to mix it with normal plain water.
Daily intake value
The daily intake amount of electrolytes varies with age. However, there is a common approximate value for every normal adult.
Calcium: 1000 mg,
Magnesium: 300-450 mg,
Potassium: 2500-3500 mg,
Sodium: 2300 mg,
Phosphorous: 500-700 mg,
Chloride: 2400 mg.
Signs of electrolyte imbalance
- Abnormal blood pressure
- Nausea
- Tiredness
- Irregular respiration
- Rapid heartbeat
- Disorientation
- Irregular urination
- Thirst
- Fainting and possible seizures
Best Electrolyte Drinks
ORS powder
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Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS) is made based on the formula recommended by WHO. It is helpful to fight against dehydration. It is widely available in sachets at local pharmacies, but it is recommended to take it under medical supervision.
ORS drink
It is ready to drink. ORS contains essential electrolytes and sugar. It is available in various flavours and helps to keep you hydrated on summer days.
Gatorade Sports Drink
It is an electrolyte drink that helps to restore lost body fluids due to excessive heat or exercise. They come in various flavours and are highly recommended drinks. It is specifically made keeping in mind the athlete to prevent dehydration. It is packed with electrolytes and carbs.
Pedialyte Advanced Care Plus
It is an electrolyte drink that contains 33% more electrolytes and prebiotics. It helps to avoid dehydration and maintain intestinal bacteria. It replaces lost fluid much faster and is suitable for both children as well as adults. But this drink is only be taken under medical supervision.
Natural beverages act as electrolyte drinks
Lemonade (Nimbu Pani)
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Lemonade is the easiest and most amazing way to keep your body hydrated. Its high vitamin C content improves skin health and immunity. To make a quick and tasty lemonade drink, you need lemons, salt, sugar, and water. To enhance its taste, you can add mint leaves, black pepper, rock salt, and cumin powder. It helps to replenish all essential electrolytes that have been lost due to sweat.
Coconut water
Coconut water is a superb source of electrolytes. From calcium, potassium to magnesium, it contains almost all essential electrolytes. Coconut water is an excellent way to regain lost body fluid due to heavy sweating. It helps to reduce blood pressure and promote cardiovascular health. It is also very beneficial for kidney health.
Sugarcane juice
Sugarcane juice acts as a great energy booster in summer. It is rich in antioxidants and has the capability to replace any energy drinks. It helps to keep us away from severe diseases like jaundice. It tastes better if you drink chilled. A glass of buttermilk with mint, cumin seeds, and salt immediately quench our thirst.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk is a soothing drink for summer. On drinking, it immediately gives us a sense of refreshment. It keeps our body very cool.
Buttermilk helps to keep our gut healthy and maintains proper bowel movements.
Fruit juices
There are many ready-to-drink fruit juices available in the market, but it is better to drink fresh and natural fruit juices prepared at home.
Natural fruit juices are abundant with electrolytes. They contain natural sugar and are high in potassium and phosphorous. Juices from fruits like watermelon, orange, mango, pineapple, apple, guava, and lychee help to replenish electrolyte levels quickly.
Conclusion
Electrolytes are minerals that help to regain lost energy, balance pH level, and keep us fresh. In addition, adequate electrolyte fluid helps in the proper functioning of our body. You can try the above-mentioned electrolyte drink and natural beverages, and let us know your experience.
