What are Electrolytes?
Electric minerals that are made up primarily of: sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphate. They create electrically charged ions upon dissolving into the body’s fluids to help keep us hydrated and healthy. Our bodies depend on these electrolytes as they regulate important bodily functions like muscles, nerves and blood pressure, repair damaged tissue and contract muscles. Loss of electrolytes can result in dehydration, therefore it’s important to always drink enough water and supplement when necessary. Achieving peak performance relies solely on hydration and electrolyte balance, learn how to perform to your best ability by understanding how to curb electrolyte imbalance!
Causes of Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when there is an imbalance of fluids coming out of the cells versus the amount of water coming in. Although fluid loss is a normal part of daily life, our diet and fluid intake should make up for the loss that is happening -- through sweating, crying, breathing and urination. Dehydration may occur if you forget to replenish these stores sufficiently throughout the day. Here are the main causes to look out for in dehydration:
● Not drinking enough fluids
● Consuming too much alcohol
● Fever
● Vomiting
● Loose stools
● Excessive sweating
● Excessive urination
● Exposure to hot climate
● Vigorous physical activity
● Consuming too much caffeine
Key Symptoms of Dehydration
Listen to your body -- thirst is the best indicator of dehydration! You know that feeling where you keep drinking water, but can’t seem to feel hydrated? That’s really your body’s way of screaming “give me electrolytes!”
Along with thirst, other important symptoms of dehydration include:
● Dark coloured urine
● Lack of urine output
● Dry mouth
● Headache
● Dizziness
● Dry skin
● Lack of energy
● Irritability
● Muscle cramps
Dehydration can have severe consequences if not treated properly, remember to always listen to your body! If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms listed above, take an electrolyte supplement immediately and drink lots of water.
4 Tips To Avoid Electrolyte Imbalance
Supplement, supplement, supplement!
Taking an electrolyte supplement is the most effective way to ensure optimal hydration, but it can be overwhelming when choosing a product...given all the options out there! Thankfully, Herbaland has helped make the decision easy with their new Electrolyte Gummies! Featuring a perfect balance of minerals and refreshing coconut water, in a tasty pina colada flavour -- how can you resist? Vegan and low in sugar ingredients make them a suitable choice for anyone!
It’s all about timing! Set yourself up for success when preparing for vigorous activities. Electrolyte balance is responsible for achieving peak performance, therefore you want to supplement within 2 hours before a major event (such as the Sun Run) so you can perform at your best!
Feeling hot, hot, hot? Dehydration can occur through excessive perspiration. That’s why it’s so important to replenish lost fluids, especially after physical activity or exposure to hot temperatures. This is simply done by drinking enough water and adequate electrolyte supplementation. Coconut water is another great way to hydrate as it naturally contains important minerals for balancing electrolytes.
Ditch the caffeine! Although caffeine can be great for boosting energy, it can throw off your electrolyte balance if over consumed. A negative effect of drinking caffeine may be a contributor to dehydration. Consuming too much, especially when it’s close to engaging in physical activity, can put you at risk for dehydration. As it may deplete your body of important minerals that are vital for hydration. Your best bet -- stick with coconut or filtered water!
Whether you’re working out, in the sun for too long or consuming bucket loads of caffeine, remember the importance of keeping hydrated! Take your electrolytes and drink plenty of water to stay balanced, healthy and happy!
Beat dehydration and perform to your best ability with Herbaland’s Electrolyte Plus Gummies. The perfect balance of minerals packed into a convenient, vegan and low-sugar gummy -- best if taken with water! Did I mention they taste like a fresh pina colada on a hot summer day? They’re so delicious, you won’t forget to take them!
The Breakdown | Electrolyte Plus
Coconut water | naturally occurring electrolytes
Calcium | regulates muscle contractions, nerves & heart
Magnesium | relaxes muscles, aids calcium absorption
Sodium | maintains fluid balance, vital for muscle contractions
Potassium | prevents cramping, benefit muscle strength
Naturally flavoured
Gluten-free
Vegan
Per serving:
80 calories
3g sugar
6g fiber
References:
1. Caffeine's effect on fluid electrolyte balance (urine output may contribute to dehydration)
2. Dehydration and the causes
3. Essential electrolytes