Electrolytes are minerals with an electric charge.
Electrolytes are essential for life and health because they stimulate the cell activity throughout the body.
They help hydrate and produce energy in the body. They also cause muscular contractions such as the ones that keep your heart pumping.
You can get electrolytes from food, so you don’t need to drink any artificial drinks.
It’s amazing, isn’t it?
Let’s learn all about electrolytes, and foods that contain them.
What are Electrolytes?
Minerals that have an electrical charge are called electrolytes. Your cells, muscles and organs need fluids and electrolytes to function correctly.
Electrolytes help maintain the fluid balance in the body.
Electrolytes are used for a number of other purposes besides fluid regulation.
They regulate fluid levels in the blood plasma and maintain pH. They also send nerve signals to other cells from muscles, nerve cells, and heart cells.
They can also keep your heart pumping by electrically stimulating the muscle contractions.
Your body needs electrolytes to function correctly and maintain your health.
Discover the 10 foods which replenish electrolytes.
The Electrolytes Infused in Water
Brands of electrolyte drinks can vary, but all of them will satisfy your body’s need for electrolytes within seconds.
You can find these fluids in most sporting goods and supermarkets.
If you choose electrolyte water, be aware that some of them contain a large amount of sugar. Be sure to read the nutrition label.
The following are some of the best brands of electrolyte drinks:
- Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier.
- Dr. Price’s Electrolyte Mix
- Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte powder
- Pedialyte electrolyte Hydration drink.
Meat and poultry
White meat and poultry are good sources of electrolytes.
In 100g of white meat, you will find 349 mg potassium and 1200mg sodium.
All of these foods are excellent sources for zinc. Pork and beef are also good sources of chloride.
3: Dairy
In milk and yogurt, calcium is a common electrolyte.
One cup of milk contains approximately 300 milligrams, while one cup yogurt contains about 450 milligrams. The cheese is a great source of chloride.
They are all great snacks to rehydrate electrolytes after a workout and increase protein intake.
Celery
Celery is a great vegetable because it contains many nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K and potassium.
Celery contains many nutrients that help you to overcome constipation.
Celery reduces the stress hormones and fights inflammation.
5: Spinach
Spinach contains a lot of electrolytes. Spinach also contains micronutrients such as vitamin A and K.
One cup of cooked spinach provides 73% magnesium to an adult and 24% calcium.
You can now see why it is considered one of the best foods for replenishing electrolytes.
6: Fruit Juice
Although electrolytes are found in many juices, lemonade stands out. Other juices include orange, banana and pomegranate.
This fruit juice contains 533 mg potassium per cup, making it a great source of electrolytes.
Avoid options that contain added sugar if you want to increase electrolyte intake.
7: Avocado
Avocados have become more popular than ever because they are an excellent source of potassium. This fruit is very popular because it’s one of the best electrolyte sources.
One regular avocado contains 660 mg potassium.
Choose 14 avocado slices on a piece of bread to rehydrate and feed after an intense workout.
Watermelon
All year round, watermelons are an excellent source of electrolytes. Potassium, for example, is found at 320mg in a medium sized wedge of watermelon.
Watermelon makes a great pre- and post-workout snack.
Eat a cup of watermelon after a workout to replenish your electrolytes and energy levels.
9: Bananas
Bananas have long been regarded as the most potassium-rich fruit and vegetable. Bananas contain a high amount of potassium and are regarded as nutrient-rich foods.
Potassium helps to manage blood pressure and muscle tension.
A banana contains 422 mg of potassium, which is a very high amount.
Coconut Water
Coconut water contains 350 milligrams potassium, or 13% of the daily electrolyte requirement.
Coconut water can be used to boost energy and electrolytes during or after exercise.
The natural sugar in the product helps to replenish energy reserves that are depleted by physical activity.
The conclusion of the article is:
Electrolyte imbalances can be caused by many things, but are most often associated with dehydration and excessive sweating.
A nutritious diet and plenty of water can help to avoid electrolyte imbalance.
Include these foods on your daily food list and tell us how you feel after consuming this electrolyte enriched diet.
