Electrolytes are a major requirement for proper hydration! The essential electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium) play a vital role in keeping our bodies hydrated and balanced. Electrolytes also help regulate blood pressure, support heart function, and aid in digestion. Knowing how to replenish electrolytes is important for recovery from a workout, illness (especially when vomiting), or any activity that produces a large amount of sweat (outdoors during a Texas summer).

Let’s look at a few healthy ways to replenish your electrolytes besides just drinking plain water!

Drink some unsweetened coconut water.

Make a smoothie: leafy greens, fruits, nut butters, maybe some avocado, a pinch of salt and if possible, allow it to be coconut water based.

Eat your bananas!

Hydrate with fruit: watermelon, lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits, strawberries, and cucumbers.

Snack on leafy greens: kale, spinach, or collard greens.

Try some chia water.

Check back next week to read about natural sources of replenishing electrolytes specifically for sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.