Hydrating our bodies

Our post last week discussed the four basic things our bodies need: fuel, rest, movement and hydration. We asked on our socials what you all thought was the hardest for you and hydration came way out on top. So, let’s dive deep. 


The proper definition of hydration is: The process of providing an adequate amount of liquid to bodily tissues.


Hydrating our bodies is important because it:

  • Fuels our muscles which are 75% water 

  • Moistens tissues in our face like our eyes, nose and mouth

  • Assists the body in thermoregulation via sweat

  • Provides lubrication to our joints

  • Is the medium for transportation (of nutrients, oxygen, waste products) of the blood and across cell membranes


Remember learning about osmosis and diffusion in high school science class? (Ha!) In short, water alone does not hydrate us. Electrolytes + water hydrate us. We need both in an equal balance for our cells. 


Now. This does not mean we need to consume sports drink by the dozen as there are many different ways to consume electrolytes: supplements, food, beverages. The amount of electrolytes also depends on your activity you do or where you live. Consulting with a dietitian can help educate on the specifics for you. 


In general, though, when our bodies move and we sweat, we are excreting electrolytes and it is important to understand how to replenish them. 


There are five main electrolytes: sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and calcium.


Sodium, chloride, and potassium work together to help regulate and maintain fluid balance in our bodies.


Magnesium and calcium are essential for optimal muscle function and play an important role in energy metabolism.


As mentioned above, we can find electrolytes in many different forms. See some of our favorites below:


Food: 

•Sodium: salted nuts, pretzels, crackers

•Potassium: bananas, potatoes, dark leafy greens, citrus fruits 

•Magnesium: pumpkin seeds, almonds, cashews, peanut butter, spinach, beans 

•Calcium: milk, yogurt, almonds, broccoli


Supplements: 

My main recommendations of electrolyte supplements out there? Nuun and LMNT. Why? Of them all, these contain all of our electrolytes: sodium, magnesium, chloride, potassium, and calcium. However, LMNT does not contain calcium. 


Let us know some of your favorite sources! 


Jamison WorleyComment