Electrolytes are increasingly common in functional foods, from sports drinks to powdered and odorizing pills. Many people believe that they help replenish water and maintain energy better than filtered water. However, not everyone needs to supplement electrolytes every day.
According to Dr. Prabhat Ranjan Sinha, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Aakash Healthcare (India), healthy people with a balanced diet often do not need extra supplements. Electrolysis is only really necessary in certain situations to prevent health risks.
Electrolytes are minerals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, which play a role in maintaining fluid balance, transmitting nerve signals and supporting muscle activity. The body may lose these minerals when having diarrhea, fever, high-intensity exercise, working in hot weather or prolonged stress.
When you lack electrolytes, you are prone to fatigue, headaches, cramps, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating. For the majority of healthy people, filtered water and adequate meals are enough to recover. However, athletics, people working outdoors in the hot sun, or recovering from digestive disorders may need appropriate supplements.
People who use a lot of caffeine and alcohol are also at risk of dehydration faster than usual, so they need to pay attention to reasonable electrolyte replacement.
Some popular options recommended by experts depending on needs:
Oral rehydration solution ORS: This is a standard solution in the treatment of dehydration due to diarrhea or heatstroke. The ratio of salt and sugar is calculated to help the body absorb fluids effectively.
Low-sugar electrolyte powder: Suitable for light exercise or daily use. Users should prioritize products with clear mineral content and limit added sugar.
Sugar-free coconut water: This type of water is rich in potassium and magnesium, suitable for mild dehydration. However, due to its low sodium content, it does not completely replace medical solutions when severe dehydration occurs.
Electrolyte bulging tablets: Convenient for runners and travelers. Products containing sodium, potassium, magnesium and limiting artificial colorings should be chosen.
Magnesium supplements: Useful for people with frequent cramps, difficulty sleeping or stress. Need to use the correct dose to avoid digestive discomfort.
Sports drinks: Suitable for high-intensity exercise but often contain a lot of sugar and calories, not suitable for less active people.
Not everyone needs to use electrolyte supplements. If you eat enough, drink enough water and only exercise lightly, filtered water is a suitable choice. People with kidney disease need to be careful because mineral buildup can be harmful. In addition, if the goal is to lose weight, consuming sugary drinks can hinder the plan.
Electrolysis is very useful when used at the right time and for the right person. Listening to the body, reading the ingredients carefully and understanding personal needs will help you maintain a safe and effective balance of water and minerals.
The information in the article is for reference only, not for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should talk directly to your doctor for accurate and appropriate advice to your health condition.
