How to Make Electrolyte Drinks Without Sugar
Staying hydrated is an essential component of wellness, no matter the season. When we sweat, we lose water and minerals essential to regulating the functions of the body.
This is why bringing an electrolyte drink with you can be helpful.
When you think of hydration and electrolyte drinks, what comes to mind? Is it a gas station cooler stocked with brightly colored sports drinks loaded with real and artificial sugars?
If so, it’s time to learn how to make electrolyte drinks without sugar to enjoy the benefits of hydration without unhealthy additives.
How Can I Get Electrolytes Without Sugar?
Electrolytes are positively or negatively charged substances that help your body stay regulated when dissolved in water. Inside of the body, electrolytes regulate chemical reactions, balance between fluids inside and outside cells, natural pH balance, and much more.
Sugar is not needed for your body to reap the potential benefits of an electrolyte drink. Sodium, magnesium, chloride, calcium, potassium, phosphate, and bicarbonate are minerals that help to balance electrolytes.
Look for foods and drinks containing the above minerals to reap the potential benefits of electrolytes.
Are There Any Electrolyte Drinks Without Artificial Sugars?
If you’re looking to hydrate after a workout or sporting event and want a naturally sweetened option, check out Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Drink from Ultima Health Products. This mix-in powder contains a perfect balance of six electrolytes plus support minerals that work together to provide complete hydration. The best electrolyte drink provides the stuff your body needs without making you jittery, caffeinated, and headachy.
Do Electrolytes Work Without Sugar?
Some sugar-free electrolyte drinks contain artificial sweeteners, while others are loaded with refined sugars. While these may enhance taste, sugars are not needed for the electrolytes to be effective.
Sugar can be a smart way to generate a quick burst of energy during endurance activities. But you should not rely solely on sugar to maintain a level of healthy activity. Proteins and healthy fats are better alternatives to consider.
How Can I Hydrate Without Sugar?
There are many ways to stay hydrated without the sugars sometimes added to electrolyte drinks.
However, natural sugars occur in many liquids that provide electrolytes. Good sources of no-sugar-added electrolyte drinks include:
• Tomato juice - Although sometimes high in sodium, tomato juice is a good source of electrolytes and contains 8 grams of natural sugars per 6 fluid ounces.
• Coconut water - A good source of potassium chloride and sodium, natural coconut water contains 4.6 grams of natural sugars per 6 fluid ounces.
• Cow and plant-based milk - Containing high levels of calcium and other electrolytes, most types of milk can help you to stay hydrated. Cow milk contains 12 grams of natural sugar per 6 fluid ounces, and most plant-based milks contain little to no natural sugars.
In moderation, natural sugars may be appropriate for your diet and health goals.
What Is The Best Homemade Electrolyte?
If you’re looking for electrolyte drinks without sugar and don’t mind trying a DIY method, there are several ways to make electrolyte water on your own.
How to Make a Rehydration Drink
Most DIY electrolyte drinks require natural salt and minerals like calcium magnesium powder.
Directions
Ready to make electrolyte water? Here’s a simple recipe that you can customize to meet your needs.
• 1 quart of water or a brewed tea
• ⅛ - ¼ tsp of natural sea salt
• 1 tsp calcium magnesium powder
• ¼ - ½ cup natural fruit juice (optional)
• 1 - 2 tbsp honey or stevia
If using tea, brew the tea and steep it with the stevia. Stir in the calcium magnesium powder and salt. Add honey and juice as desired and store in the fridge for use as needed for up to 4 - 5 days.
Now that you know how to make an electrolyte drink without sugar, give this recipe a try and see if it keeps you hydrated and healthy.