How do I balance my electrolytes?

There’s a lot of information floating around about hydration and electrolytes, and at least three times as much alleged “advice” from influencers and advertisers trying to sell you one supplement or another. 

So what’s the truth of the matter? Should I be taking electrolytes? How much? What kind? When? 

Let’s start with the most important reminder: if you have any health concerns or are worried you have a health issue relating to hydration or electrolytes, don’t go to Google - go to your doctor. 

Otherwise, let’s delve into some of the research. Electrolytes are minerals that become electrically charged when dissolved in liquids. They are essential for many bodily functions and factors, including muscle contraction, nerve impulses, and fluid balance. They include bicarbonate, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, and sodium. 

Generally, we get electrolytes from a balanced and nutritious diet, and when we hydrate adequately, everything is all good. 

However, sometimes, we get out of balance - and that’s when things go out of whack!

Out of balance can mean several different things: too much water and not enough electrolytes, too many electrolytes and not enough water, and several combinations thereof. 

The times that we need to increase both electrolytes AND hydration are when we’re doing high-intensity exercise (often in hot weather) that induces a lot of sweating, because you lose both electrolytes and water in your sweat. 

So to wrap it all up, consider adding an electrolyte solution to your daily intake when you’re sweating a lot through exercise - for example, in a RiseUp class! Just be on the lookout to avoid sports drinks that tout their electrolytes, but add a ton of sugar and fake coloring. 

Hydration is one important aspect we focus on during our Simple30 2.0 Health and Wellness Challenge, see more details here!