Electrolytes! Do you need them?

Electrolytes! A product that is being advertised everywhere at the moment.

What are they?

Usually bought in powder or effervescent tablet form- they are a combination of minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, possibly calcium and phosphorus too) 

These minerals, particularly the sodium, help the fluid move into your body from the gut more efficiently, thereby hydrating more quickly than water, and replacing minerals lost through sweat/ diarrhoea. 

Do I recommend them?

Yes, if:

• you are ill and losing fluids 

• If you are unable to eat and drink normally

• If you have exercised vigorously and cannot take on enough fluids

• if you are a heavy sweater

• You know you are dehydrated and want to rehydrate more efficiently 

Not really if:

• You are able to eat and drink normally

• You are lightly active

• You are  light sweater

• Your urine is a normal colour