Homemade Electrolyte Drink

Healthy homemade alternative to Gatorade

It’s no secret that many sports drinks have a bunch of unnecessary ingredients, sweeteners, and preservatives. But this “natural electrolyte drink” is free of any bad stuff! Our friend Inez introduced this recipe to us a couple years ago on a trip to Yosemite and I still love making it for day hikes! It’s perfect for keeping you hydrated and replenishing electrolytes, plus it tastes great! Here’s what you’ll need for this refreshing beverage recipe! 

*Disclaimer: This article in no way constitutes medical advice. For medical concerns always consult your primary care physician* 

Coconut Water

Coconut water, not to be confused with coconut milk is an excellent natural source of potassium (which supports healthy muscle contraction and helps regulate blood pressure). One cup is equivalent to 10-13% of your daily value (you will want to drink more than one cup with this recipe, it’s so good!) It is also a delicious way to help regulate blood sugar levels! However for those suffering from Renal Failure you will want to consult your personal care provider to determine how much potassium consumption is appropriate for you. Too much potassium can lead to irregular heartbeat and those with kidney issues may not be strong enough to filter excess potassium from their blood.

Fresh Lime Juice

Not to be overlooked in this recipe is lime juice! Because it’s a citrus fruit it contains high amounts of Vitamin C as well as antioxidants. This means it brings a variety of health benefits to the table:

• Assists with iron absorption
• Immunity boosting
• Kidney stone prevention

Just to name a few. This recipe is best enjoyed when made with fresh limes and coconuts!

Pink Himalayan Salt

Consuming too much salt can be a bad thing, especially if you have a history of hypertension (high blood pressure). However if you live an active lifestyle, or go for a strenuous hike on a hot day your body will need to replenish its electrolytes. Pink Himalayan salt is a great electrolyte boost to this recipe as it has potassium, calcium, magnesium, and more. Perfect for preventing muscle cramps and spasms!

Sparkling Water

Maybe it’s just me, but you know that “I just guzzled some fizzy Dr Pepper or sprite” feeling that leaves an “ahhhh” sensation in your throat and mouth? Yea I LOVE that feeling! What I don’t love though is all the chemical additives and sugar that come with drinking soda, even diet soda.
So I started drinking sparkling water instead. I make it at home with our soda stream, it’s super easy! And if ever I want a sweet sparkling beverage, I can add fresh ingredients to it accordingly.

*this is drink is more savory than sweet, if you aren’t a fan of coconut water or prefer your beverages on the sweeter side you can always decrease the amount of pink Himalayan salt and add some agave or stevia. 

Ingredients:

• Coconut water from 1 fresh coconut (we use a drill, make 2 or 3 incisions in the “eyes” of the coconut and then drain into a glass as shown below…sterilize your drill by running it over a flame and then washing with an antibacterial soap) 

*alternatively you can use a pre-bottled organic coconut water product like harmless harvest or vita coco 

• Ice 
• Fresh juice of 1 lime 
• 1/4 teaspoon pink Himalayan salt 
• 1 can or bottle of unflavored sparkling water (we have a soda machine but whenever the cartridge runs out I prefer the Jaritos Minerauga brand) 

Directions:

• Combine all ingredients into a large glass
• Stir and pour into 2 cups over ice 
• Enjoy! 
  

Not the biggest fan of coconut flavored beverages? No worries! You may prefer our sparkling limeade, it’s delicious!