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Organic Electrolyte Drinks

Electrolyte drinks are a valuable tool for athletes, active individuals, and anyone who wants a quick, easy way to stay hydrated while also maintaining the body's vital electrolyte balance. Knowing which kind of electrolyte drink to choose is incredibly important, as choosing the wrong one can detract from your health. Several quality products on the market today keep us hydrated and safe during strenuous activity, while also improving our long-term health.

  1. Why Electrolyte Drinks Play a Vital Role

    • The three most-known electrolytes contained within the body are potassium, sodium and chloride. When we sweat through physical activity, these electrolytes are lost at a very fast rate. In the body, electrolytes separate themselves into electrically-charged particles called ions, says Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, author of "Fluids and Electrolytes Made Incredibly Easy!" Once these ions break down, they convert into an electrical charge that makes muscle use possible. This electrical charge acts as the "communication" between the cells of our muscles, allowing them to work in unison. When electrolytes are depleted, the muscles lose their ability to flex and contract, and the body begins to feel weak.

    Organic vs. Inorganic Electrolyte Drinks

    • Some of the most popular electrolyte drinks use high fructose corn syrup to sweeten their products. This is a dangerous sweetener, as it sharply elevates blood glucose levels, and consumption of high fructose corn syrup has been linked to the development of type-2 diabetes. These products add vegetable oil to improve the drink's flavor, which may contain trace amounts of pesticides which can be harmful to the body.

    The Organic Difference

    • According to Peter V. Fossel, author of "Organic Farming: Everything You Need to Know," organically-grown ingredients taste better, contain a higher amount of antioxidants, are free of pesticides and fertilizers, and have been found in numerous studies to be more nutritious for the body. If that isn't enough, buying organic products often supports local, well-intentioned farmers and small businesses. Organic electrolyte drinks use organic evaporated cane juice as a sweetener, as well as organic brown rice syrup. They are free of chemical additives and processed ingredients; therefore, they do not toxify the body as they hydrate and replenish electrolytes.

    Organic Electrolyte Drink Brands

    • One popular organic electrolyte drink is the Clif Shot Electrolyte Drink. It is sold in both pre-mixed packets, as well as in powder form. PediaVance Organic Electrolyte Solution is just as effective as conventional electrolyte drinks, yet is made naturally and contains no artificial sweeteners. A third cost-effective option is to concoct your own organic electrolyte drink. Fill a container three-quarters with water. Top off with organic fruit juice, and add a pinch or two of sea salt.

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