Why Take Electrolytes When It’s Hot?

Electrolytes are as essential as water and sunscreen for thriving during summer and staying safe and healthy. Your body uses these tiny, electrically charged mineral bits to move fluid in and out of your cells, organs, and blood. Electrolytes are as necessary as water for healthy hydration; without the right amounts of both, you won’t be able to hydrate. 

Dehydration ranges in severity; mild dehydration can be treated with fluids and electrolytes, but even moderate dehydration can require medical treatment. If you’re exercising in the heat, you may notice your energy dipping as you run low on electrolytes and water, making hydration essential for performance. You also risk more severe symptoms and health issues if you stay dehydrated or it gets worse. Brain fog, nausea, vomiting, and muscle weakness are all symptoms of dehydration. Severe dehydration may become life-threatening quickly, especially if you are physically active. Please err on the side of caution when it comes to exercising outside during summer.

Can Electrolytes Keep You Hydrated in the Summer?

Your body uses electrolytes to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months! Unlike fat-soluble vitamins, like A or E, which the body can store, electrolytes dissolve in water. This is what makes them so helpful for hydration, but it also means that you steadily and regularly lose your electrolytes when your body releases fluids, like when you sweat. 

Cultures in hot parts of the world have cooling, electrolyte-rich drinks for the summer months. Fruits are an excellent source of electrolytes and water; consider the Agua frescas from the Aztecs, guayusa tea from South America, and coconuts in South Asia. 

Is it Better to Take Electrolytes Compared to Drinking More Water?

Electrolytes and water are like peanut butter and jelly; they go hand in hand. Drinking water alone isn’t enough to hydrate your body. In fact, drinking too much water without taking in electrolytes can make you very sick. Remember, you need electrolytes to move water out of your body and absorb it too. Hyponatremia occurs when your electrolyte levels become so low or diluted that your kidneys can’t move excess water from your body. This can lead to seizures, brain damage, coma, or death.

The delicate process of keeping the right amount of fluid in your blood, organs, and cells is a symphony of coordination. Your body uses electrolytes like sodium and potassium and substances like glucose to regulate how much fluid goes into your cells, how much comes out, and when. And hydration is not a static state. Your body constantly loses fluids, which accelerates in the heat and sun as your body must work even harder to maintain homeostasis.

During the summer, drink plenty of water and take electrolytes so your body can do what it does best; keep you hydrated, healthy, and in balance. 

When Should You Supplement Electrolytes in the Summer?

1. Daily:

Even if you’re not outside much during the hot months, you’re likely warmer than usual. Using electrolytes as a general daily supplement is a great way to support your body during the summer and be prepared for whenever you’re outside.

2. Walking:

A great way to get gentle exercise during the summer is to take walks during cooler parts of the day. Taking electrolytes after a walk outside will help you stay hydrated.

3. Hiking:

Don’t let the heat keep you from your favorite outdoor activities like hiking. Taking a few precautions, like hiking in the morning, bringing plenty of water and sunscreen, and taking electrolytes every few hours, will keep a summer hike enjoyable.

4. Running:

Summer running means it’s time for electrolytes! Be smart, and don’t run during the hotter parts of the day. Take electrolytes before, during, and after your run, and drink plenty of water. If running over a few miles, map out places to refill your water bottle.

5. Swimming:

The best part of summer is swimming! It can be easy to dehydrate during this fun summer activity; take water regularly and electrolytes every hour or two, depending on your activity level.

6. Yard work:

Electrolytes are essential for any outdoor activity, and yard work is no exception. You might be working even harder than a runner, so take electrolytes and water frequently, more if it’s very hot and bright out.

7. Driving:

While you aren’t exerting yourself physically while driving, your car is likely hot. If you feel tired and cranky after driving in the heat, consider taking some electrolytes before, during, or after your drive.

Stay Hydrated with Electrolyte Gummies!

Seattle Gummy Company (SGC) used modern science to design its balanced, fast-acting electrolyte gummy, the HydraFuel hydration + fuel gummy. With the right blend of bioavailable electrolytes, your body can quickly absorb, you’ll feel the HydraFuel gummy start working in minutes. And, with its science-based ratios, your stomach will thank you; say goodbye to nausea from other electrolyte formulas! Banish fatigue and keep yourself safe this summer, whatever you’re doing, with SCG’s HydraFuel electrolyte and hydration gummy.