Should I be having electrolytes every day?

A surprising way so that we can exhaust the body of electrolytes is by excessive consumption of water. “People who drink three liters of water or more per day – who think they do something good for their bodies – find that it actually leads to excessive urination and a subsequent loss of electrolytes,” says Stansbie. Another is a similar and apparently healthy habit: “Those who avoid salt entirely missing two essential electrolytes: sodium and chloride,” she notes.

What are the symptoms of low electrolytes?

A low electrolytic balance can manifest itself as:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Muscle spasms
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache

Is it good to drink electrolytes every day?

If you tend to eat a balanced and varied diet, then do you need to complete with electrolytes? According to experts, probably not. “Although the appropriate electrolyte balance is really important for health and well-being, most people with normal food and activity levels do not need specialized supplements daily,” explains the nutritional neuroscientist Amy Reichelt. “Especially if your diet contains high levels of sodium chloride (salt table) or if you don’t drink enough water.”

Even for those who exercise regularly, Reichelt takes a low view of electrolyte supplements. “They provide practical hydration for occasional needs as in a hot environment, people who sweat and do a lot of exercise, or if you have food poisoning or vomiting or diarrhea. However, most prepackaged electrolyte supplements are expensive and can contain added sugars or artificial ingredients, and overuse could also cause electrolytic imbalances. »»

For women, there is a convincing argument which completes with electrolytes can Help fatigue and muscle cramps caused by the loss of iron and electrolyte during menstruation. “Likewise, during menopause, symptoms such as excessive sweating and night sweats can cause changes in electrolytic balance. Also during pregnancy, the increase in liquid needs can modify electrolyte levels, magnesium being particularly important to prevent leg cramps, ”advises Dr. Dallas.

When you are looking for a quality electrolyte supplement, Dr. Dallas says that it contains a “key mineral mixture, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and chloride, to ensure appropriate hydration and mineral regeneration.” Beyond that, choose one with a minimum of artificial additives such as sweeteners, flavors or colors.

How the exercise affects the balance of electrolytes

The personal celebrity coach Aimee Victoria Long says that the type, intensity and length of the exercise you do can affect the electrolytic balance of your body. “The HIIT (high intensity interval training) generally leads to significant perspiration, which can make electrolytes a good idea. This will help reconstruct the minerals lost by perspiration. Endurance sports and prolonged activities such as the race can also benefit from supplementation. »»

If you do not exercise regularly or you tend to stick to low impact training such as Pilates or Yoga in nice environments, long says it is not too worried. Instead, focus on adequate hydration and a balanced diet of vitamins, antioxidants, proteins, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates and fibers.

Is there someone who shouldn’t take electrolytes?

“People with heart disease, in particular heart failure or hypertension, should avoid excessive sodium consumption, as it can worsen liquid retention and blood pressure. People with Addison disease or other endocrine disorders may require meticulous monitoring of their electrolytes. In addition, people under diuretics or drugs affecting electrolyte levels should consult a health care provider before using supplements, “warns Dr. Dallas.

This article appeared for the first time on vogue.co.uk

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