Electrolytes are essential chemical substances that are necessary for the metabolism of all the cells in your body. Electrolytes include potassium and sodium. It is very important that you maintain the balance of these electrolytes in your body because they affect your function of your muscles, blood acidity (pH), the water in your body and other vital processes. When you sweat, especially during exercise, vomit or have diarrhea you lose electrolytes. By employing all the methods below you can effectively replenish lost electrolytes.
Step 1
Replace lost potassium electrolytes by eating potassium-rich dried apricots. This healthy snack contains more than 1000 mg of potassium. Eat about half a cup after exercising and drink 1 cup of water to help digest them. You can also consume other potassium-rich foods, such as bananas and raisins.
Step 2
Consume an electrolyte substitute in gel, tablet, powder pack or strip, which dissolves under your tongue. Popular brands include Gatorade and Innozen. Always read the ingredients and make sure they contain sodium and potassium. You can find these supplements at any convenience store or pharmacy.
Step 3
Drink a sports drink such as Gatorade to replenish lost electrolytes after a workout or when you feel dehydrated or tired. These drinks contain carbohydrates to give you energy and are high in sodium and potassium.
Step 4
Drink half a glass of salt water to replenish lost sodium. Add half a teaspoon of iodized salt to one full glass of water, stir and drink slowly. This is especially helpful if you have exercised for more than an hour or feel sick.
Step 5
Consume a prepared electrolyte replacement solution such as Pedialyte. These drinks are formulated to replace electrolytes and fluids quickly due to vomiting and diarrhea in kids and adults. Never consume sports drinks when experiencing diarrhea, since they are high in sugar and can make diarrhea worse. Pedialyte can be found at your local drugstore.
Things You'll Need
- Dried apricots
- Raisins
- Bananas
- Iodized salt
- Electrolyte tablets
References
- "Medical Diagnosis and Treatment;" Stephen J. McPhee, MD; 2006
- "The Healing Echo: Discovering Homeopathic Cell Salt Remedies;" Vinton McCabe; Jan 15, 2008
- Ultracycling.com: Electrolytes and Fluid Replacement
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