Replacing electrolytes becomes vital whenever you exercise for more than two hours.
Whether you run marathons, practice hot yoga or work outside in the sun, an electrolyte replacement drink will help your body stay hydrated and functioning properly. Electrolytes are chemicals that conduct electricity. Maintaining a proper balance of electrolytes in your blood is essential to maintain your energy levels and normal bodily functions. According to the website Sports Med Info, the principle electrolytes that your body needs are sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate. By following this sports drink recipe, you can save money by mixing your own electrolyte replacement beverage at home.
Instructions
1. Dissolve 2 tablespoons of honey in one cup of warm filtered water. Honey will provide carbohydrates to replace those lost during exercise.
2. Add a quarter teaspoon of salt and stir to dissolve. Salt helps to maintain the fluid balance inside and outside of your cells. When dissolved in water, salt disassociates into a positively charged sodium ion and a negatively charged chloride ion.
3. Squeeze the juice from half an orange into the honey-and-salt solution. According to the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, orange juice and grapefruit juice contain high levels of potassium.
4. Pour enough filtered water into your container to bring the volume up to one liter. To make a cold sports drink, add a combination of ice and water.
5. Sip your homemade sports drink throughout your activity to replace electrolytes lost through perspiration.
Tags: sports drink, electrolyte replacement, filtered water, your body