You’ve heard the mantra “hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.” We try to hit half our body weight in ounces per day, right? The problem: many people consume ultra-filtered water, which is devoid of the minerals our bodies need. This type of “dead water” does not actually hydrate your cells!
For example, athletes and individuals who sweat a lot lose not just water but also essential salts and minerals. Simply replacing the lost water without replenishing these minerals can result in dehydration and other health issues.
Ok, so why do we even need minerals?
- Building Strong Bones and Teeth
- Regulating Muscle and Nerve Function
- Maintaining Blood Sugar Levels and Blood Pressure
- Balancing pH Levels
- Enzyme and Hormone Production
Athletes, particularly runners, often use salt pills to replace the salts lost through sweat. This practice might seem counterintuitive, but it’s actually preventing dehydration!
Here are some issues that are common if you become deficient in minerals:
- Dehydration
- Constipation
- Fatigue and Dizziness
- Dental and Bone Health Issues
- Muscle Cramps and Weakness
I was really struggling with my hot yoga sessions before I realized it was a mineral issue. I was getting fatigued and dizzy, and adding in some electrolytes beforehand solved my issues!
Here are my best mineral-boosting tips:
- Drink Natural Spring Water: Unlike distilled or ultra-filtered water, natural spring water contains essential minerals that aid in hydration.
- Use Mineral Supplements: Adding mineral drops or taking mineral supplements can help replenish lost minerals. I like this one and this one.
- Incorporate Mineral-Rich Foods: Foods high in minerals, such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, should be a staple in your diet.
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