With our summer temperatures already in the triple digits and this weekend expected to reach record-breaking heat, keeping hydrated is a top priority.
Some of us reach for sports drinks to replenish our electrolytes and quench our thirst, thinking that these are a healthy alternative to other beverages. What you may not know is that these drinks that you believe are good for you may actually contain unnecessary sweeteners, artificial flavors and colors.
Judy Nicassio, of Rejuvena Health & Aesthetics in Scottsdale, explains why your body needs electrolytes. “Electrolytes basically consist of calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium chloride and some hydrogen salts. They are vital for our survival and regulate nerve and muscle function, hydration, blood pH; are responsible for rebuilding damaged tissue and determine blood pressure. There are many ways to get fresh and natural electrolyte replenishment from foods such as oranges, coconuts and honey.”
Judy shares some recipes you can make at home for refreshing beverages that will keep you hydrated:
Fast and Easy Recipe
1 gallon filtered water
1/4 to 1/3 teaspoon sea salt
Mix together and drink.
Citrus Cooler
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 ½ to 2 cups filtered water
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
2 tablespoons natural sugar or honey, to taste
Put all ingredients into blender and blend until honey is dissolved. Pour into a tall glass over a few ice cubes.
Sweet and Cool
2 cups coconut water
1 cup strawberries
2 cups filtered water
1 cup ice
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
2 tablespoons honey, to taste
Put all ingredients into blender and mix until smooth.
If you don’t have time to make your own drinks, Judy suggests these healthy store-bought drinks that will replenish your electrolytes too:
Pure coconut water – contains five essential electrolytes, plus more potassium than a banana! With no added sugar and no fat, it’s the most natural way to rehydrate and replenish lost nutrients.
Emergen-C – You can make water into a sports drink instantly. The regular Emergen-C contains electrolytes, but they also make an Electro Mix formula that has zero calories, is naturally flavored and sweetened with stevia.
Judy Nicassio became a certified nutritionist through the American Health Science University in 1995. After moving to Arizona from Chicago, Judy joined Rejuvena Health & Aesthetics, where she assists patients with the implementation of customized food plans based on food sensitivity and other diagnostic testing, while incorporating the principles of nutritional typing.
