After workouts and especially during hot Sun Valley summer months hydration becomes an important topic. How are you refueling and rehydrating your body? If you are suspicious of the neon-colored, sugar-loaded options (as you should) on the shelves there’s hope! Whipping up a homemade electrolyte drink is super easy.

What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals that play a role in controlling heartbeat, balancing bodily fluids and sending electrical impulses to muscles in order to coordinate movement. Sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium, phosphate and calcium are the minerals your body relies on most. If you lose electrolytes faster than you can replenish side effects can include muscle cramping or irregular heartbeat. Don’t be that guy! Oh and by the way, food does contain electrolytes too and many of us replenish naturally by drinking water and eating a meal after a rigorous workout.

Let's talk about replenishing your body with natural, whole ingredients without the use of those unnatural dyes and sweeteners.

Coconut water is an excellent base for a homemade electrolyte drink. Add your desired amount of water. Then add 100% natural juice such as orange, lemon, lime, pomegranate or watermelon. (Fresh squeezed is best!) Tea such as ginger, hibiscus or mint could be added here as an alternative to juice for flavor. Try a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Add a natural sweetener such as honey, maple syrup, or sugar-free monk fruit. Add collagen powder, cream of tartar or other powders/minerals of your liking. Lastly, a pinch of salt. Stir and enjoy.

Happy experimenting! Let us know what your favorite recipe ends up being!