Should electrolyte drinks be taken every day?
In recent years, electrolyte drinks have been widely promoted as an "optimum water replenishment" solution for all subjects, from athletes to office workers. However, according to medical experts, most healthy people do not need to drink electrolyte drinks every day. Excessive consumption, especially prolonged, can cause many worrying consequences.
Dr. Jamie Johnson, a clinical nutritionist registered (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist) at the Mayo Clinic Health System (USA), said: "Electrolytes are essential, but only when imbalanced due to illness or high-intensity exercise. Surplus is no less dangerous than shortage.
6 health risks when using too many electrolyte drinks
The most common risk is hypernatremia. Sodium plays a role in maintaining fluid balance and nerve conduction, but when absorbed too much from electrolyte drinks, elevated blood sodium levels can cause severe thirst, nausea, confusion, convulsions and in severe cases coma.
Hyperkalemia is the second risk, especially in people with potential kidney diseases. Excess potassium disrupts electrocardiogram conduction, causing irregular heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath and can be life-threatening.
Third, the kidneys are under great pressure when they have to filter excess sodium, potassium and calcium for a long time. According to the US National Kidney Association, this increases the risk of kidney dysfunction and kidney stones, especially in people with chronic kidney disease.
The fourth risk is digestive disorders. Drinking concentrated electrolyte drinks or without enough filtered water can cause diarrhea, bloating, cramps and intestinal discomfort.
Fifth, comes from the accompanying ingredients, especially sugar and caffeine. Many types of sports drinks contain high levels of sugar, contributing to weight gain, tooth decay and metabolic disorders if used regularly. Some products also supplement caffeine in significant amounts, easily causing palpitations and insomnia.
Finally, hypertension is a significant risk in people who are salt-sensitive or have chronic hypertension. High sodium content in electrolyte drinks can make blood pressure difficult to control.
According to Dr. Heather Jones, a sports medicine expert at the Cleveland Clinic (USA), electrolyte supplementation should only be applied in specific situations: "After high-intensity exercise lasting for more than an hour, when vomiting, diarrhea, fever or sweating profusely in a hot and humid environment.
In normal living and working conditions, filtered water combined with a balanced diet has provided enough sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium needed. Fruits, green vegetables, yogurt, and nuts are safe natural electrolyte sources.
Experts recommend that electrolyte drinks should not be used as daily drinks. People with underlying cardiovascular, kidney, and high blood pressure diseases need to talk to their doctor before using them.
