Homemade Electrolyte Drink

drinks & smoothies

17 Aug

GLUTEN FREE · DAIRY FREE · NUT FREE · PALEO

Proper hydration is just as important as proper nutrition, probably even more so. I live on the little Mediterranean island of Cyprus, where temperatures are currently averaging 35-38°C. Summers here can really be intense and staying hydrated is more important than ever.

Water plays multiple vitally important roles in the body. Staying properly hydrated is therefore a priority for everybody, but particularly for those who may be losing more fluids, whether from excessive sweating, a nasty stomach bug, or a health issue like IBD or having an ostomy.

But it’s not just about drinking lots and lots of water. What determines how the various body systems function is the proper balance between water and electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals (including sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium) which carry a small electrical charge (as is suggested by their name) and are absorbed by the small intestine and dissolved in our body water. The charge in turn helps the body regulate its water levels and pH balance (how acid or alkaline our internal environment is), and contributes to the proper functioning of our muscles and nervous system.

You can ensure sufficient intake of electrolytes by way of oral rehydration salts/solutions or certain energy drinks. However, these often contain artificial colourings, sweeteners and preservatives. So why not make your own electrolyte drink with pure and healthy ingredients? It could not be easier or faster to make, and it can be a wonderfully refreshing drink to sip on in the hot weather.

For more information on proper hydration, and tips on eating your water, read this.

THE INGREDIENTS

Water

The mother of all hydration! By far the healthiest and purest drink option, water is our first line of defence against dehydration. Since plain water can have the tendency to ‘slip through’ our digestive system when drunk in large volumes and not accompanied by food or nutrients, the addition of the other ingredients here help counter this, enhancing the hydrating effect.

Lemon juice

Lemons are great natural electrolyte boosters, being rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium. As a bonus, they are good sources of immune-boosting vitamin C, help balance the body’s pH levels, and detoxify the liver.

Just make sure your lemon juice comes from an actual lemon and not a bottle!

Sea salt

Sea salt is an obvious source of sodium - a key electrolyte that is crucial in helping the body balance its fluid levels - but it also contains potassium, magnesium and calcium.

Himalayan and Celtic sea salts are great options, as they are less processed.

Honey (raw)

In addition to the pleasant taste that honey creates, taking the edge off the sharpness from the lemon, it also provides simple sugars (fructose and glucose), which are great for a natural energy boost.

Raw honey is preferable as it has not been overheated and so all the enzymes, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties are perfectly intact.