Electrolytes Supplements - Energize & Hydrate

What Are Electrolytes?

Did you know electrolytes play a vital role in everything from fluid balance to heart health, brain function, and many others? Indeed, while we often hear about the importance of them to replace those lost through sweat in the context of sports nutrition – i.e. sports/electrolytes drinks, powders, and effervescent tablets, electrolytes are vital to myriad other bodily functions. So, what exactly are they, and who needs them?

In a nutshell, electrolytes are particles that carry either a positive or negative charge when dissolved in water. Any of the various ions (such as sodium or chloride) that regulate the electric charge on cells and water flow across their membranes is considered an electrolyte. In simpler terms, however, they are essential minerals – like sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, chloride, and bicarbonate – intimately involved in several metabolic processes, all of which are essential to overall health and wellness. So crucial are electrolytes to health that an imbalance can result in severe consequences, including: muscle weakness, confusion and irritability, diarrhea or constipation, fatigue, headaches, muscle cramps, muscle spasms or weakness, nausea and vomiting, numbness or tingling in limbs, fingers and toes, and even irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). Fortunately, electrolyte supplements are readily available for a quick and convenient dose of these critical minerals.

Benefits of Electrolytes

• Boost Athletic & Mental Performance
• Promote Nerve & Muscle Function
• Protect Brain Health
• Reduce Risk of Fatigue
• Regulate Fluid Balance
• Support Heart Health

Who Needs Electrolytes?

An electrolyte supplement is a fantastic idea for anyone who is extremely active or is always on the go to help with fluid loss caused by excessive sweating. Athletes and gym rats are also perfect candidates for these supplements to help maintain their mental focus and physical energy, boost exercise performance, and help prevent fatigue. An electrolyte solution may also be recommended to individuals suffering from an eating disorder or poor diet to help maintain a healthy electrolyte balance, as well as anyone who is dealing with diarrhea or vomiting, kidney disease, or congestive heart failure, as well as anyone on medications like water pills or laxatives, that can throw off electrolyte balance. 

Electrolytes Potency Forms & Formats

These supplements are available in tablets, capsules, powders, and dissolvable tablets that can conveniently be dropped into your water bottle to sip throughout your workout, race, or game to help keep your energy up and prevent fatigue and cramping. Effervescent electrolyte solutions in powder and tablet form come in a range of yummy flavours and often feature added nutrients like vitamins A, C, E, and the B family of vitamins for a non-caffeinated energy boost and immune support.

Final Thoughts

Electrolytes are plentiful in, among other foods, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, and seeds, but supplements are ideal when you need an extra boost to replenish lost electrolytes. Opt for a supplement that features esterified vitamin C (Ester-C or calcium ascorbate) whenever possible, especially if you are sensitive to acid or take aspirin regularly, as it is easier on the stomach. Esterified vitamin C is also said to be better absorbed and used by the body.