The Secret to Hydration: Are Electrolytes Better than Plain Water?

Ever hit a mid-afternoon slump? Or frequent headaches? Sugar or salt cravings? Muscle cramps? Dull or dry skin?

These can all be signs of low-grade dehydration. In fact, as many as 75% of Americans are dehydrated. The secret to staying hydrated isn’t just drinking more water: it’s electrolytes. Without electrolytes, it’s hard for your body to hold onto and utilize the water you’re drinking! 

Who needs electrolytes?

Everyone! Especially if you’re sweating, detoxing, drinking coffee (really any caffeine or alcohol), experiencing stress, or living in warm/humid climates. Electrolytes aren’t just for athletes. Everyone can benefit – from kids all the way up through adults!

What makes electrolytes different from plain water?

Electrolytes contain necessary minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium that your body needs to function. Plain water does not contain these minerals. The saltiness of your sweat is a good reminder that we lose a lot more than water when we sweat. We lose minerals, too. 

What are the benefits of electrolytes?

• Increases energy and brainpower, especially helpful for the afternoon slump
• Supports recovery from exercise, sports, detoxing, travel, late nights, or illness
• Decreases cravings
• Can improve mood
• Promotes healthy adrenal function
• Helps with muscle contractions or cramps

Which electrolytes do you drink?

My whole family drinks TDW Electrolytes every day! We have a variety pack with flavors for everyone: Strawberry Lemonade, Mango Orange, Guava Grapefruit (my personal fave!) and Lemon Lime, or you can stick with a Guava Grapefruit only pack!

TDW Electrolytes are different from other electrolytes. Here’s how and why I chose to formulate them differently:

• Organic, Superior Ingredients: TDW Electrolytes are made with a powdered organic coconut water base and high-quality, unprocessed salt. For the flavors, we use organic fruit juice powder only. 
• No Junk Allowed: Most electrolytes on the market have natural and artificial additives that minimize their benefit. TDW Electrolytes are made with no natural flavors, no artificial ingredients, and no added sugars, ever. We don’t use food colorings, dyes, fillers, or gums. 
• Ideal Ratio of Minerals: TDW Electrolytes have a unique and different mineral content breakdown than other electrolytes on the market. After over a decade of working with patients in the private practice setting, I saw how many lacked magnesium but didn’t need more sodium in their diets. This is why TDW Electrolytes have more magnesium and less sodium than other leading brands. Optimal hydration for modern day needs without going overboard on salt!

How does your family enjoy electrolytes?

Everyday and any time! But usually around 2 or 3 p.m., I add a packet of these electrolytes to my water to fight the afternoon drag! I’ve noticed more energy and less cravings or fatigue. My skin has become more hydrated, which I’m sure has something to do with how I’ve minimized my fine lines, too!

I prefer to take a proactive versus reactive approach to hydration, so I also drink electrolytes before a heavy detox like the sauna or traveling. My boys love them, especially during summer with sports, swimming, etc… And my husband drinks 2 packs of electrolytes every single day, especially before hitting the gym.

I also want to note that TDW Electrolytes are perfect to have on hand during times of sickness and upset stomach. I’ve even had a friend make “electrolyte popsicles” with them when her son got a tummy bug! It was the only thing he could stomach, and she was able to have peace of mind that he was staying hydrated. 

Electrolyte Recipe Ideas:

• Popsicles: Blend up 1 can of full-fat coconut milk, 1 cup of your favorite fruit, and 1 stick of your favorite flavor of TDW Electrolytes. Freeze in popsicle molds. Or keep it simple and froth 1 stick of TDW Electrolytes with water. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze. 
• Snow Cones: Combine 1 packet of your favorite TDW Electrolytes with water. Pour over shaved ice and enjoy.
• Mocktail: Muddle a few of your favorite berries in the bottom of a cup. Dissolve 1 packet of TDW Electrolytes in sparkling water. Pour sparkling electrolyte water over ice and muddled berries. 
• Ultra-Hydrating Smoothie: Add 1 packet of your favorite TDW Electrolytes, 1 serving of high quality organic protein powder, ½ cup frozen fruit, 1 cup clean nut milk, and any other desired add-ins to a high-speed blender. 

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