Sometimes, you just need to replace your electrolytes.
A series of hard workouts, excessive sweating, headache, bad breath, fever, vomiting, diarrhea,… any of these can be signs that you should take steps to prevent dehydration, replace your electrolytes, and help your body recover more quickly and regain its interstitial fluid balance.
That’s why sports drinks and electrolyte replacement therapies can be a great speedy solution. Unfortunately, I have a lot of issues with regular “sports drinks.”
When I read the labels I see some great electrolytes like magnesium, potassium, calcium, and sodium, but I also find artificial sugars like Aspartame, Sucralose, and High Fructose Corn Syrup; artificial dyes (show me where florescent orange appears in nature!); caffeine; and “natural flavors” (Remember the frightening list of ingredients that make up “natural flavors”?).
It’s harder to find a clean, acceptable sports drink/electrolyte replacement than you might think. I challenge you to start reading the labels.
One that I like is Owater and their line of All Natural Electrolyte Drinks.
I think electrolytes by themselves must taste awful, because even Owater needs a sweetener. I’m happy to report that they use only pure cane sugar, and 35% less sugar than typical sports drinks. Without any artificial flavors or colors, Owaters are clear like the purified/distilled water they start with.
I prefer Owater to standard pediatric electrolyte replacement therapies like Pedialyte for the same reasons.
My kids like the Black Raspberry flavor, whereas I prefer Coconut. Find your own favorite!
