What benefits do electrolyte drinks have for our bodies?

You have just finished working out, an intense gym session, a long mountain hike, or a marathon. Sweat is dripping down your body, and you are dehydrated and thirsty. You might consider drinking plenty of water at that time, right? Water will help to quench your thirst, but what about the invisible minerals left on your body from sweating? Electrolyte drinks are created to keep you hydrated and recharge your body with essential minerals to help you replenish those minerals.

Electrolyte drinks suddenly began a new stir among Bangladesh’s young generation. People started drinking them during summer for hydration and to restore minerals after physical labour.

People started trying different local and international brands out of curiosity, and it became a trend on social media platforms. Following the trend, these electrolyte drinks gained popularity as a health and wellness trend.

Promotion of these drinks by local influencers and personalities has boosted their demand and encouraged many people to try out this drink and experience the hype about it.

Different kinds of drinks are available in the market for instant hydration and to enhance energy levels.

Flavoured beverages have a high concentration of artificial food colouring, preservatives, and sugar content, which is harmful to the body and does not serve as a good substitute for hydration.

In that case, we should mention that they keep our bodies hydrated, prevent muscle cramps, provide minerals to muscles and tissues, and replenish lost energy after an intense workout or gym session.

According to health experts, electrolytes can control fluid balance, balance our ph level, regulate blood pressure and help with muscle contraction in different body parts.

During illnesses like fever, diarrhoea, and vomiting, people lose fluid and electrolytes from their bodies and need quick hydration to replenish those minerals. At that time, electrolyte drinks could be an option for restoring minerals and promoting proper body function.

Remember that electrolyte drinks shouldn’t be consumed as a substitute for daily intake unless you lose electrolytes from your body during a physical workout in the gym, stay outdoors for long in the sun or suffer from illness.

For those who want to avoid buying electrolyte drinks, you can easily make electrolyte drinks at home using only 3-4 ingredients. Simply take coconut or just regular water, add 1-2 tablespoons of salt, 1-2 cups of lemon juice, and honey (optional) and make your drink at home.

If you want to gain electrolytes from natural sources, here are some options: coconut water, watermelon, lemonade, yoghurt and a diverse selection of fruits and vegetables like carrots, beetroot, beans, leafy greens.

Electrolytes are good for health if consumed in a limited amount to replenish minerals in the body. However, they can never be a substitute for a healthy, rich diet or drink, so only take them when needed. For less hassle, consider a homemade option that can be incorporated into your diet without all those artificial colours and flavours.

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