Electrolytes are not just for fitness enthusiasts…

7 Min read

In this article:

The ancient story of electrolytes
Water is only half the hydration picture
Electrolytes aren’t just for marathons.

The ancient story of electrolytes

When you hear the word ‘electrolytes’ what springs to mind? Whilst they may conjure futuristic fluorescent drinks, true electrolytes are in fact rooted in nature.

Today, we can simply turn on a tap or reach for our filter jug to top up our glass with water. Our ancestors, however, would have found water from various natural sources such as springs and wells. These were typically high in minerals thanks to the underground aquifers, soil and rock layers the water would need to trickle and travel through, absorbing minerals like calcium, sodium and magnesium.

Let’s not, however, look at ancient H20 through rose-tinted (water) glasses. Sourcing water from other places such as streams, rivers, lakes may have also carried some not-so-nice impurities, making it less reliable for drinking without some form of purification. In part, our divorcement from nature has led to our modern day tap water which isn’t perfect either. It is typically treated to remove impurities leading to a lower mineral content whilst also raising concerns about contaminants like lead, chlorine, fluoride, and microplastics which have prompted some to seek alternative water sources or filtration systems. Filtering good quality water and replacing lost minerals in the process strikes a balanced approach to ensuring safe and nourishing hydration.

Deplete, Replenish, Repeat

The human body is beautifully complex. It works to find balance and health through intricate processes, constantly modulating to maintain homeostasis. Central to this equilibrium are water and minerals, involved in almost every metabolic function, naturally supporting our mind and body. As our body uses these resources, it must also top them up in a perpetual cycle of deplete, replenish, repeat. Minerals which facilitate electrical conductivity in the body, crucial for optimal cellular function, are called ‘electrolytes’.

Water is only half the hydration picture

We should all be aiming to drink enough water for our bodies. It’s one of the most effective yet simplest levers to pull to elevate your health. Water is the solvent for life, acting as the medium for vital roles such as regulating temperature, cushioning joints, protecting organs, and enabling countless cellular functions. And yet, if we overlook electrolytes we're missing a huge part of the hydration equation. Acting as the body's "spark plugs," electrolyte minerals support optimal cellular function, nerve transmission, and muscle contractions by facilitating the movement of water into cells.

Healthy hydration is a balancing act. It is about maintaining fluid balance in the body which allows for blood flow and a healthy waste management system.

Sodium and potassium are key electrolytes for this. Sodium maintains fluid balance outside of cells while potassium maintains fluid inside cells. They balance each other out. Other electrolyte minerals, magnesium and calcium, also influence hydration, acting to regulate the flow of minerals and facilitating the movement of water in and out of cells.

Without the balance of water + electrolytes, symptoms may arise such as fatigue, headaches, brain fog, constipation and poor recovery.

Electrolytes aren’t just for marathons.

Whilst we need to replenish our electrolytes when we lose them through sweat in extreme events such as marathons or intense exercise, there’s a need for these essential minerals beyond a running track.

Menopause + active ageing

The human body is estimated to be 60% water, this in fact drops to 55% for women after menopause (1). As we age, the body naturally doesn’t retain moisture like it once used to. During perimenopause, when hormone levels fluctuate, our bodies can become less efficient at regulating water and electrolyte balance. Oestrogen also plays a role in helping to keep water within your cells. Progesterone, another key hormone, acts as a diuretic, increasing urination and causing the body to lose important electrolytes. This change in hormones, coupled with some menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats, can mean we are losing more water and electrolytes than before. Becoming dehydrated may exacerbate menopause symptoms such as headaches, dry skin, fatigue and joint pain.

Crucially, the brain requires a steady supply of water and minerals; without them, brain fog can become significantly worse.

When it comes to changes in our skin during perimenopause and beyond, oestrogen is intricately linked with the production of collagen. As well as a drop in collagen synthesis when oestrogen levels fall, the skin starts to lose some of its ability to retain water. Making sure you drink enough water and supporting cellular hydration helps you to replenish and hydrate your skin as well as supporting collagen production. (2)

New (thirsty) mums

The postpartum period is a joyous yet equally challenging time filled with more than a few demands (and newborn cuddles of course). Amidst the focus on the littlest new family member, it's easy for mums to overlook their own needs. As well as replenishing foods, staying well-hydrated is crucial during this phase, not only for postpartum recovery but also for those who embark on the breastfeeding journey. Breast milk, which is about 90% water, relies on good hydration to maintain a healthy supply. It’s incredibly thirsty work for both parties!

Moreover, good hydration supports energy levels, which is much needed when caring for a newborn. Proper hydration also plays a role in regulating hormone levels, and mood stability, which are vital for a mum's overall well-being during this transformative phase of life. Ensuring adequate intake of electrolytes alongside water can be particularly beneficial for new mums, helping them navigate the wild ride of early motherhood.

Hydration for the hustle

For those determined to excel in their passion, maintaining optimal hydration and electrolyte balance is crucial for peak cognitive performance. Your incredible brain cells rely on electrolyte minerals like sodium and potassium to transmit nerve impulses effectively, supporting mental clarity, focus, and overall cognitive function. Sodium deficiency, in particular, can lead to concentration difficulties and brain fog, while dehydration—exacerbated by screen time, busy city pollution, and air conditioning—can cause headaches and reduced productivity. Amidst back-to-back meetings and a hectic schedule, it's easy to forget to drink enough water, yet it's a simple and effective way to boost energy production and sharpen your thinking. By prioritising hydration with electrolytes, you equip your body with the stamina needed to face your demanding day and achieve your best.

Wanderlusters

Ever find yourself landing in your destination, excited for adventure and some much needed relaxation, but feeling drained from the journey? Low cabin pressure, temperature fluctuations, reduced oxygen levels, and low humidity can all take a toll on your hydration levels. Research suggests that during a 10-hour flight, you can lose up to 2 litres of water, leaving you feeling lousy upon arrival. Staying well-hydrated during travel can help to counteract many symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, swelling, bloating, dry and lacklustre skin, and constipation, while also keeping your immune system strong. Our immune system relies on mucus membranes to trap and filter airborne bacteria and viruses, but dehydration can dry out these membranes, especially in the nose and throat, making us more vulnerable to that post-flight cold. With travel often involving hot destinations (sweating), increased physical activity (more sweating), different foods, and alcohol, maintaining proper hydration is even more crucial.

The key to electrolytes on holiday is packing light - True Hydration sachet fit snugly into your hand luggage and are easy to add to your water bottle.

Glow getters

Those passionate about beauty and skincare may love the buzz of investing in the latest miracle cream but might just be missing a trick for radiant skin. While great quality skincare products can certainly help, optimal hydration is crucial for replenishing and maintaining skin moisture. The result? A healthy, glowing complexion. To achieve true hydration from within, electrolytes play a vital role in transporting water into skin cells, ensuring they remain plump and hydrated. So, alongside your skincare routine, focusing on electrolyte balance may just enhance your skin's natural glow.

Sauna souls

Saunas have surged in popularity for their whole-body health benefits and wonderful community. Sweating is, of course, a fundamental part of the experience and linked to the various benefits. However, when we sweat we lose essential electrolytes that must be replenished. Drinking electrolytes in a sauna environment means not only rehydrating but also replenishing the minerals lost through sweat.

We like to (occasionally) party

Alcohol, notorious for its diuretic effects, often leaves us nursing hangovers that are essentially bouts of dehydration. Some people also use electrolytes before they go to bed and as soon as they wake up to combat the dehydrating and drying effects of alcohol (in of course, a balanced and responsible way). By hydrating smartly, they fend off the dreaded headaches and keep their balance intact.

Your hydration solution

Not all electrolytes are created equal. Inspired by the natural electrolytes found in coconut water, True Hydration is an intelligent formula that combines key minerals crafted for rapid rehydration. Each refreshing sip delivers a balance of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium to swiftly restore electrolyte levels without artificial flavours, sweeteners or additives.

Try the hydration challenge

Add a dose of True Hydration to a large glass of water and drink first thing every morning and see how quickly you notice the benefits.