Why should I take Electrolytes?

By Zoe Garlington

First thing about electrolytes, this is an umbrella term. Electrolytes are made up of different minerals such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and sodium. Electrolytes can be bought as powder and added to water or as electrolyte-infused water. Electrolytes are minerals which can conduct electricity when dissolved in water. Tap water already has electrolytes in it but not a high dosage, averaging 34 ounces per 1 litre of water. This is only 2-3% of the recommended intake of electrolytes, so supplementing will benefit in increasing this intake.

So why do we need electrolytes? How can they benefit you? Well, electrolytes are essential for a lot of bodily functions such as maintaining your bloods correct acidity (pH), regulating blood pressure, fluid balance and helping your muscles contract properly. While exercising hydration is of course important, however hydration does not end with water, when we exercise and sweat we release salts and without replenishing these, this can lead to an electrolyte imbalance.

If you have an electrolyte imbalance you may have one or more of the following symptoms: muscle cramps, fatigue, headaches, arrhythmia (irregular heart beat), confusion and irritability. If you think you may have an electrolyte imbalance this can be checked via a blood or urine test. Blood tests can be ordered via our reception and come in a range of prices and test for different things.

So if you’d like to start including electrolytes in to your supplementation when to take them and how to take them is important. We at Halo stock Awesome Supplements Hydrate electrolyte blend, then you should follow their recommended dose of a 10ml scoop (8.3g) to 500-800ml of water. However, if you buy your electrolytes pre-mixed into water, the dosage will already be set out. So when should you take it? It is recommended to drink electrolytes during a workout, however if you’re like me then you are likely drinking something else (such as EAA’s) mid workout. So I add electrolytes into my day either in the morning or the evening to ensure I have a good balance of electrolytes.