Coconut water or electrolytic drinks and powders?

• You can get all the necessary electrolytes thanks to a regular diet.
• However, supplements and electrolytic drinks may be necessary if you have an electrolytic imbalance, which heavy perspiration, a disease or a state of health can cause.

Coconut water

Coconut water comes from young coconuts and is different from coconut milk. It has been used for centuries to treat dehydration, stomach infections and other conditions.

• Some research shows that coconut water can improve hydration in athletes. According to a study, coconut water was as effective as a sports drink in maintaining hydration, heart rate and performance during the prolonged cycle. However, the study was small.
• Coconut water is lower in sugar than many drinks and electrolyte powders. A study on diabetes rats has shown that it can also help reduce blood sugar. However, it is not clear if it can apply to humans.
• Coconut water may not suit some people. People with kidney problems may have to limit coconut water, as their kidneys may not be able to correctly filter potassium, leading to high potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
• Some people may be allergic to coconut water. Although a coconut allergy is rare, you can live anaphylaxis Or other undesirable effects if you have a coconut allergy and drink coconut water.

Electrolyte powders

Electrolyte powders tend to improve hydration, but use them can have drawbacks.

• Electrolyte powders contain essential nutrients for hydration. Electrolyte powders generally have high concentrations of carbohydrates and essential minerals necessary to maintain the balance of fluids and prevent dehydration.
• Some products contain added sugar and synthetic ingredients. Although generally considered safe, many electrolyte powders contain added sugar and artificial ingredients to improve flavor.
• The electrolyte powders are somewhat annoying. Unlike other rehydration drinks, they must be mixed with water, which can be difficult on the move or in specific contexts.

Sports drinks

Sports drinks are similar to electrolyte powders, but are ready for use and may contain different concentrations of carbohydrates and electrolytes.

• Sports drinks are rich in carbohydrates and can quickly reconstruct liquids. Research shows that sports drinks stimulate the reabsorption and retention of liquids compared to water alone.
• Sports drinks can improve sports performance. Research shows that using sports drinks during exercise or training can increase energy and increase performance.
• Sports drinks have more added sugar and calories than other hydration drinks. Excessive consumption of sports drinks has been associated with weight gain.

How often should you drink electrolytes?

For most people, water is sufficient to maintain daily hydration.

As a rule, electrolytic drinks are only necessary when you have an electrolytic imbalance. The current causes of electrolytic imbalance include:

• Heavy perspiration of an intense exercise
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Heart, liver or kidney problems
• Specific drugs

You may have an electrolytic imbalance if you experience signs of dehydration, such as:

• Be thirsty
• Dry mouth
• Infrequent mine
• Dark yellow urine
• Headache
• Muscle cramps

Contact a health care provider to find the best treatment option if you are concerned with an electrolytic imbalance.

How to choose the healthiest and most moisturizing drink

The choice of the healthiest option can be confusing regarding coconut water compared to electrolytic drinks.

Here are some tips that can facilitate the choice of the best moisturizing drink:

• Coconut water is lower in sugar and sodium than electrolyte powders and sports drinks.
• Sports drinks are recommended for intense or prolonged exercise due to their higher concentrations of carbohydrates, sodium and other minerals.
• Coconut water is rich in potassium and may not be recommended for people with kidney problems.
• Electrolyte powders and sports drinks can offer faster hydration compared to coconut water.
• Sports drinks are higher in calories and can cause weight gain if consumed excessively.

Some trials and errors may be necessary before finding the moisturizing drink that best meets your needs.

For more advice, be sure to contact your health care provider or a registered dietitian nutritionist (RD / RDN).

Main to remember

• Coconut water, electrolyte drinks and electrolyte powders contain carbohydrates and minerals that help hydration.
• Coconut water is a natural hydration drink, lower in sugar than sports drinks and electrolyte powders.
• Electrolyte drinks and powders are generally recommended for intense exercise and can reconstruct liquids faster.