Did you know that the global fitness industry is worth 87 billion dollars?
Yup, everyone is getting fit and prepping their body for the summer in one way or another. That means hitting the gym and guzzling some sports drinks, too.
It’s not all bad. These commercial sports drinks that we’re all used to having while working out do have some nutritional value to them. Still, we think it’s always a good idea to try and switch up your routine (both physically and chemically).
So we’ve concocted a guide on how to get natural electrolytes without your usual sports drinks!
Drink Coconut Water
A coconut drink is a great alternative to traditional sugary sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade. It is a natural source of electrolytes. It has potassium, magnesium, calcium, and sodium, which the body needs to stay hydrated and stay energized after exertions.
It is also free of fats and cholesterol and added artificial sweeteners or preservatives. And it has a light, refreshing, sweet flavor, which makes it a great alternative for sipping throughout the day or for post-workout recovery.
It is a very low-calorie beverage but can also be enjoyed with other smoothie recipes. Plus, it’s a good source of dietary fiber and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Sprinkle Sea Salt or Himalayan Salt on Your Meals
Adding a pinch of sea salt or Himalayan salt to foods like soups, smoothies, veggies, and salads is a great way to get natural electrolytes.
They contain trace amounts of minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. So it makes them a great source of electrolytes.
Eat Fruits High in Potassium
Eating fruits high in potassium is one of the best ways to get electrolytes naturally. Bananas, oranges, kiwis, and avocados are all high in potassium and make for a delicious snack.
Many root vegetables like sweet potatoes, squash, pumpkin, and turnips are good sources of potassium as well.
Experiment With Avocados
Avocados are a great way to get natural electrolytes without all the added sugar of sports drinks. These little plants are a true superfood, packing a ton of essential vitamins and minerals.
First, the creamy texture of an avocado makes it a great natural source of carbohydrates. It provides the energy and stamina needed for physical activity.
Second, avocados contain potassium. This is an electrolyte important for maintaining proper water balance during exercise. Finally, they are rich in magnesium, another key electrolyte for muscle and nerve function.
To get the most out of avocados for weight loss, try adding them to salads, smoothies, or sandwiches. Or use them to make healthy guacamole to enjoy with vegetables or on top of crackers or chips.
Snack on Watermelons
Watermelons are full of vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes. This makes them the perfect snack for natural hydration as they can replace electrolytes lost during exercise.
Watermelon is high in potassium and citrulline, two essential electrolyte minerals. They are also low in sugar and contain no artificial additives. So they are healthy and natural electrolyte replacements.
Try Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, chard, and arugula are packed with electrolytes without all the added sugar. They are also high in calcium, magnesium, and sodium, all electrolytes your body needs to function properly. They are laden with vitamins and minerals and are low in calories, so they are the perfect choice for electrolyte replacements.
Incorporating them into smoothies, soups or simply eating them raw are all great ways to get electrolytes. Adding some fruit to your leafy green of choice can even provide an added layer of deliciousness as well as natural sweetness.
Cook Mushrooms
Because mushrooms contain essential minerals, they provide natural sources of electrolytes. Furthermore, mushrooms contain high levels of B vitamins. This helps maintain healthy muscle tissue, improve endurance, and reduce fatigue.
Mushrooms are also a great source of antioxidants that help protect your body from free radical damage and inflammation. To get the most benefit from cooking mushrooms, it is best to sauté, roast, or poach them. Adding mushrooms to salads, pasta, or stir-fry dishes is also an option.
Devour Nuts
Some good nuts to get natural electrolytes include almonds, walnuts, cashews, peanuts, and even macadamia nuts. Eating a handful every day or two should provide adequate amounts of electrolytes to your body.
You can also get creative and combine different types of nuts with various fruits, seeds, and superfoods to create your unique trail mix. Nuts are a great snack option and there are many varieties, so you’ll never get bored of it.
Consume Dairy Products
By drinking 1-2 glasses of milk a day, you can get enough electrolytes to stay hydrated. Additionally, yogurt and kefir are richer in electrolytes than milk. And they are packed with probiotics, which can further aid in digestion, immunity, and metabolism.
Drinking non-dairy milk alternatives, such as almond or cashew milk, is also an excellent source of electrolytes. However, make sure to check the label for added sugar, as some brands do add sugar for taste.
Incorporate White Meat in Your Meal Plan
Some of the healthiest white meats out there, like chicken, duck, and turkey, are all great sources of natural electrolytes. Plus, they’re packed with lean proteins that help build strong muscles.
Eating white meat in your meals is something you can do every single day. This way, you can easily avoid processed foods and added cures that are common in red meats.
Take Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium supplements support hydration and electrolyte balance. They help to replace minerals lost through sweating and can improve sports performance. It can also help to retain water and reduce lactic acid build-up, both of which are important in post-workout recovery.
Magnesium supplements come in a variety of forms. This includes capsules, powders, and liquids, making them an easy and convenient way to get natural electrolytes. They also provide other vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin D and B6, which contribute to athletic performance.
Try These Options to Get Natural Electrolytes Now
Electrolytes do not only exist in sugary sports drinks. By eating healthy and drinking coconut water you can get natural electrolytes without all the sugar.
Just remember to also supplement your diet with some magnesium and potassium, an essential part of your body’s electrolyte balance. What are you waiting for? Start taking control of your health today!
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