The Science of Electrolytes: What They Are and Why You Need Them

You hear about them constantly—they’re marketed aggressively, and hydration beverages seem to be everywhere. But what exactly are in these drinks, and why are they so important?

Take a moment to read why electrolytes are so vital to being healthy, and why we've created the beverage to tick all the boxes of adequate hydration.

What are Electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals that dissolve in water and break into charged particles, or ions, which are vital for bodily functions. Key electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. They regulate fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions, including the heart. The body maintains electrolyte levels through the kidneys and hormones, as imbalances can lead to health issues like muscle cramps or heart problems. Proper intake, especially during exercise or illness, is crucial for maintaining these levels.

Kind of need them to live ... no biggy.

What Does Each Electrolyte do?

Sodium helps regulate fluid balance and is essential for nerve signal transmission and muscle function. Potassium is crucial for maintaining normal cell function, particularly in nerve signals and muscle contractions, including the heart. Calcium is important for bone health, muscle function, and blood clotting. Magnesium supports over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including those related to energy production, muscle contraction, and nerve function. Chloride works alongside sodium to maintain fluid balance and is part of stomach acid, aiding digestion. Phosphate supports energy production, bone health, and the formation of DNA and cell membranes. Bicarbonate helps maintain the body's pH balance, ensuring that the internal environment remains stable.

Are you telling me it serves almost every bodily function?

How Much of Each is Recommended?

Here are some general guidelines for adults:

• Sodium: 1,500 mg to 2,300 mg per day.
• Potassium: 2,500 mg to 3,400 mg per day.
• Calcium: 1,000 mg per day for most adults, with a recommendation of 1,200 mg for women over 50 and men over 70.
• Magnesium: 310 mg to 420 mg per day, depending on age and sex, with men typically requiring more.
• Chloride: 2,300 mg per day, often consumed alongside sodium in salt.
• Phosphate: 700 mg per day for adults.
• Bicarbonate: There is no specific recommended intake for bicarbonate, as it is produced by the body to regulate pH balance, rather than obtained through diet.

These values represent general recommendations, and individual needs may vary based on factors like activity level, health status, and dietary habits. 

Well that clears things up!

Why is Hydration So Important?

Hydration is essential for maintaining bodily functions. It supports the regulation of body temperature, aids in digestion, ensures proper circulation, and facilitates the transport of nutrients to cells. Additionally, adequate hydration helps flush out toxins through urine, maintains skin health, and supports cognitive function, including focus and alertness. Inadequate hydration can lead to dehydration, causing fatigue, headaches, and impaired physical and mental performance. And guess what, electrolytes are vital to hydration.

Drink up, we're serious hydration is good for everything.