When to Take Electrolyte Supplements? How much water do you drink every day? Ideally, you want to aim for eight 8-ounce glasses.
Keep in mind, however, that the exact amount depends on your activity level. For example, you’ll want to drink more after a vigorous workout.
Water isn’t the only thing that you need, though. You also need to replenish your electrolytes. They’re substances that are involved with various essential processes in the body.
Thinking of getting some electrolyte supplements? If so, you’re on the right page. We’ll be going over everything that you need to know about them below.
Keep reading to learn more!
What Are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes is an umbrella term that describes any particle with a positive or negative charge. Some examples that are found in the body include sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, magnesium, and phosphate.
As mentioned earlier, they’re vital for various bodily processes. For instance, some play a role in nerve function whereas others help to regulate pH levels.
Dangers of Electrolyte Imbalance
Electrolyte imbalances can occur if you’re dehydrated. This is why it’s so important to rehydrate yourself after losing body fluids (e.g. through sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, etc).
Generally speaking, mild cases will not cause any symptoms. Severe imbalances, however, can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, confusion, and headaches.
In some cases, it can also cause dizziness, which can lead to falls. Want to be prepared? Consider getting some first aid supplies online.
Taking Electrolyte Supplements
Electrolyte supplements are an option for those who’re experiencing low levels of an electrolyte. One of the most common types is sports drinks.
Essentially, they’re a type of beverage that replaces both water and electrolytes. There are various brands that you can get such as Powerade, Gatorade, and Accelerade.
When to Take Electrolyte Supplements
As a general rule, you want to drink two cups of high-electrolyte fluid prior to working out—that will ensure that you’re well-hydrated for the activity.
It’s also a good idea to take sips during your workout. For example, you might want to consider doing that every 15 to 20 minutes.
Don’t forget to drink again once you’ve finished the activity. The goal is to replace all the fluid and electrolytes that you’ve lost through sweat.
Dietary Sources of Electrolytes
There are also foods that you can eat to replenish electrolytes.
For example, you can get potassium from fruits such as bananas and avocados; dairy. Similarly, you can get calcium from dairy products such as cheese and milk.
Keep in mind that some electrolytes (e.g. bicarbonate) are produced naturally in the body. In other words, you won’t have to worry about consuming them through your diet!
Achieving the Perfect Balance of Electrolytes
Hopefully, that gives you a better understanding of how to take electrolyte supplements. If anything, you always want to rehydrate yourself after exercising or being in the heat!
Looking for more nutritional tips? Be sure to check out some of our other articles!
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When to Take Electrolyte Supplements?
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