How to Stay Hydrated as It Gets Warmer Out
As the Spring and Summer months start upon us, we find ourselves out and about more. But with more outside activity, the more we sweat and use up our electrolytes. Filtered water is the most common way to consume water but it removes the electrolytes from the water.
Your electrolytes consist of:
- Sodium
- Chloride
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Potassium
As well as phosphate and bicarbonate in lesser amounts.
Supplements
Supplements like Balanced Hydration or Hydra-Charge can be optimal (and easy) options for staying hydrated throughout the day. It is easy to throw into a liter of water and sip on it throughout the day compared to sports drinks, which can feel heavy and hard to drink a lot of due to the extra carbohydrates found in them.
I prefer the use of Balanced Hydration due to the amount of potassium compared to sodium it contains, as well as the fact that there is no artificial dyes, colors, and sweeteners found in it. It also uses very bioavailable versions of the minerals for superior absorption rates. And for 90 servings at the usual price of $29.99, the price point is fantastic.
This is my personal favorite and the one that I find to be most cost effective.
Coconut Water
Simply refreshing while out and about, whether it be sitting by the pool or out at your favorite amusement park, the sweet taste of coconut water is a great on the go option. The average can of coconut water has around 500mg of potassium which is around the same as a banana.
While eating a banana would provide the same benefits, sometimes the act of eating and settling down to find a place to snack can be more tiring and defeat the purpose of a convenient on the go solution.
I personally can’t deal with the pulp found in Goya and prefer to use brands like C2O which offer pulp free options, but that is totally personal preference.
Sports Drinks
Perfect for those athletes that are looking to boost their performance in and out of the gym. Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade are great options due to their hydrating properties but also their sugar content.
Most people will say there is no use in consuming the extra sugars, but they would be wrong. The extra glucose is going to be used to replenish the glycogen cells in the muscle while they are on the field.
The body likes to use sugar second after our ATP storage's when it comes to explosive exercising and will need the carbs throughout any vigorous activities.
Stay Hydrated!
Regardless of the outlet you choose to take, staying hydrated should be of the utmost importance throughout the day. While we do not know the specific point when we become dehydrated, we do know that most American’s do not get the recommended amount of potassium. So whether it means grabbing your favorite flavor of sport drinks or popping open a fresh can of coconut water, do your body a favor!
