By Megan Barber, General Manager, Co-op Owner
With the first seasonal heat wave in Michigan over, it’s still essential to keep hydrated this summer! It is common knowledge that staying hydrated in summer months is key to feeling your best and keeping your body running smoothly. When our bodies naturally sweat, the resulting evaporation cools us down, but we also lose key electrolytes. The word electrolyte seems to be added to a number of drinks these days, but essentially, electrolytes are key minerals and salts that we get from food and drink which help keep our organs running the way they’re supposed to. Areas like the digestive system, the nervous system, the heart, and the muscular system are all impacted by your consumed electrolytes.
The most common ways we lose electrolytes is through sweating, often through exercise or hot climates. We can also lose these important minerals through illnesses making replacing them key to assist in faster recovery. This is why we see electrolyte drinks or powders for fast workout recovery and in drinks (especially for kids) for when we are sick. Water is typically the most readily available source of electrolytes, but amounts can vary based on the water source. Coconut water is also a popular choice since it does not contain many sugars. Sports drinks can be full of added sugar, flavors, and dyes, but also contain added key electrolytes (and sometimes carbohydrates) that your body most likely needs. However, it is best to avoid carbonated drinks, juice, and energy drinks when you are sweating.
GreenTree supports your search for tasty electrolyte beverages with a number of flavors and formats including powders and ready-to-drink containers. R.W Knudsen’s Recharge drink is a natural electrolyte sports drink. Ultima and Liquid IV are powders you can take on the go and add to any glass or water bottle. They both come in multi-serve canisters as well as single packets for quick and tasty hydration on the go. We also offer a selection of plain and flavored coconut waters, including a turmeric variety that not only aids in electrolyte recovery, but also in reducing inflammation. Other flavors include pineapple, lime, and mango! Essentia’s new Hydro-Boost drinks contain some added vitamins, similar to Roar Organics, which include antioxidants.
Any way you look at it – GreenTree can help you stay hydrated and feeling cool this summer!
Disclaimer: If you are concerned about your electrolyte balance, please consult your primary physician.