Benefits of Proper Hydration
When we talk about hydration, we most often just think, “am I getting enough water?” But what about proper hydration and fluid balance? This is where electrolytes come in as a key ingredient in proper hydration.
Proper hydration with water and electrolytes is vital for regulating body temperature, supporting nerve and muscle function, maintaining healthy blood pressure, and facilitating circulation of nutrients and oxygen. Electrolytes enhance water absorption, prevent muscle fatigue, and contribute to overall cellular function, especially during exercise or heat exposure. They also play a role in digestion and waste removal, making proper hydration crucial for comprehensive physical and mental well-being.
The benefits of practicing proper hydration are myriad:
Improved energy and cognitive function: Dehydration can cause fatigue and sluggishness. Proper hydration helps maintain optimal blood volume and oxygen delivery, supporting physical and mental energy. Even mild dehydration can impair mood, concentration, and memory. Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium are crucial for nerve signal transmission and cognitive performance.
Supports cardiovascular health and physical performance: Adequate fluids help maintain healthy blood pressure and circulation. Electrolytes regulate heart rhythm and vascular tone, reducing the risk of palpitations or irregular beats during exertion. Proper hydration supports muscle function and endurance. Electrolytes prevent muscle cramps, maintain nerve-muscle coordination, and aid recovery after exercise.
Thermoregulation and waste removal: Sweating is a key mechanism for cooling the body, and hydration is necessary to produce sweat and maintain a constant internal temperature. The more we sweat, the more important it is to replenish those electrolytes. Water aids in flushing waste through the kidneys and supports healthy bowel movements. It’s what keeps things moving down there. Electrolytes also support digestive enzyme function and nutrient absorption for healthier digestion.
These are just a few of the ways electrolytes support our overall health. Some things to keep in mind; electrolytes are especially important during and after intense exercise (like CrossFIt workouts). They also aid in recovery after illnesses that may cause a large amount of fluid loss. Your hydration and electrolyte needs depend on your individual activity level, nutrition protocol, and overall lifestyle. Before significantly increasing electrolyte intake, speak with your doctor to ensure it's appropriate for your specific health situation.
Finally, balance is key; while electrolytes are vital, many electrolyte drinks can contain excess sugar and calories. Be diligent about reading ingredient labels and you can try out LMNT, an electrolyte drink mix that is a trusted brand of DeNovo. It’s important to note that electrolytes can also come from focusing on a balanced diet, rich in nutrient-dense foods, and supplementing with something like LNMT is just that - something to enhance an already balanced diet. If you’re not sure where to start, you can always talk to a DeNovo nutrition coach - we’re here to support you!
