Nature's Electrolytes

I remember watching videos a year ago where people were putting salt in their water and calling it 'nature's electrolytes.' I wanted to know more about these 'nature electrolytes,' since I grew up never loving Gatorade or any of those other electrolyte drinks. I was curious about the health benefits of adding minerals to water, if there were any at all.

Electrolytes are minerals that regulate your pH, fluid, muscle and nerve function, heart, bone and overall nutrient intake. Your body can absorb water better when paired with electrolytes. Keeping your body hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your overall mind and body health.

I never loved these electrolyte waters at the store due to the added sugars or odd tasting alternative sugars. However, I knew it was important to fuel my body with these vital minerals. I never thought to just make my own with just one or two ingredients. Below are a few of my favorite electrolyte combinations, I hope you find some inspiration here!

1. Lime juice and Celtic sea salt

   Both lime juice and Celtic sea salt contain the minerals calcium, potassium and calcium, which are part of the essential electrolyte minerals in the body. Salt has the ability to attach itself to water molecules, basically forcing your body to absorb the minerals rather than simply excreting them. If you find yourself drinking water and having to relieve yourself very shortly after, it may indicate that your body is not absorbing the water fully, and you are not as hydrated as you think. These ingredients together make a powerful electrolyte drink, one that sustains your body without all the extra 'crap.' I use about a tablespoon of lime juice and a pinch of salt in my 40 oz water bottle, and I do this only once in the day. I prefer either fresh limes or lime juice contained in a glass bottle.

2. Pure (unsweetened) cranberry juice

   Unsweetened cranberry juice combined with water provides another source of electrolytes and antioxidants that your body needs. Antioxidants not only boost you immune system but also prevent damage to your cells. Using cranberry juice, you are accomplishing the correct intake of both antioxidants and electrolytes that your body needs. I add about two tablespoons per 40 oz twice a day.

3. Coconut water

   While some avoid coconut water due to the assumption of a high sugar content, I argue that it is one of the best hydration sources for your body. Coconut water is actually low in sugar and calories, and frankly, I couldn't care less about the amount of sugar in a fruit, since it is entirely different than other kinds of sugar. Coconut water is high in potasium, which is excellent for heart and muscle health. I do recommend a high quality coconut water, and they usually don't contain added sugars. I like to add coconut eater to my smoothie or my water. I vary with the amount I add; I don't do more than a bottle a day. Everything in moderation ;)

4. Coconut milk, coconut water, Celtic sea salt, lime juice, water

   This is a recent favorite of mine :) Coconut milk contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. 

I prefer coconut water from its source ;) I usually drink coconut water in the summertimes.

I challenge and encourage you to try out one of these 'nature electrolyte' drinks. Especially if you are involved in daily physical activity, your body is begging you to be hydrated correctly. I switch between these three electrolyte waters depending on the season, but I encourage you to find one that works for you best. If you want to step into the amazing and captivating world of health and fitness, I think this small step will feel both realistic and assuring for you.

Stay Nourished,

Grace.