Replace Your Electrolytes With Your Own Drink!

The word “Electrolytes” has been around so long that it’s easy to think that we actually know what they are.  We know they are important, especially during or after exercise, and when we have been ill.  But maybe we’re still a little foggy on exactly what electrolytes are and why they are important.  

According to this article from active.com, “Electrolytes are electrically charged particles that help the body function normally.”  These particles include calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.  They help with muscle function, as well as keep water in the right balance inside and outside of the cells.  When we sweat, sodium is the electrolyte that is depleted the most.  

So replacing those electrolytes after exercising, especially with prolonged sweating, is a good idea.  Drink lots of plain water–after all, the most important need you have is hydration–but having a little during- or after-excercise drink can help prevent muscle cramping.  

And you don’t have to reach for the highly processed, overly sugared commercial sports drink.  Lassen’s carries several much healthier options that are quick and convenient, as I have written here and here.  But if you’d like to control what you are drinking even more, try this recipe to make an electrolyte drink yourself.

This recipe also uses coconut water, which is a natural source of those four minerals–sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium, so it’s a great base for this natural sports drink.

• 16 oz of Raw Coconut Water.  I used Harmless Harvest.
• 1/2 cup organic, freshly squeezed orange juice.
• 1/2 cup organic, freshly squeezed lemon juice.  I used Meyer lemons, which are sweeter than many other lemons.
• 1-2 TBSP raw organic honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar.
• 1/8 tsp Himalayan Pink Salt.  Don’t use just any old salt.  The Himalayan Pink Salt contains “the same minerals as our bodies, so it is easily metabolized.” (from the label)  It has 84 trace elements, so is a great choice for this electrolyte drink.

Blend all of the ingredients together until the salt is dissolved, then pour into a jar.  Chill until needed.  It can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.  

If you would like to learn more about the difference between regular table salt and healthy Himalayan Pink salt, click here.  You will be astounded at the health benefits of this natural salt over regular table salt!

When you’ve worked up a healthy sweat, make sure you reach for something healthy to replace your electrolytes!  

Love,

Lassen’s