Should you drink electrolytes before or during hiking?
Lavonne McGlynn
2025-05-27 04:43:51
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: 20
When hiking, especially in hot weather, you sweat considerably – leading to loss of not just water but also electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Without adequate electrolyte replenishment, you risk headaches, muscle cramps, fatigue, and overall suboptimal body functioning. Drinking plain water simply cannot restore electrolyte balance. However, adding electrolyte mixes or tablets to your water enables you to better replace the minerals and nutrients lost through sweat. Generally speaking, if you are hiking for an hour or less, you don’t need electrolyte supplements. However, if you are walking for hours or hiking in hot weather or at high altitudes, you should use them. Consuming electrolyte water is even more vital when hiking long distances or at high altitudes. Sipping electrolyte solutions at regular intervals in such cases provides an efficient, convenient way to replace depleted salts and minerals.
Wayne Stroman
2025-05-27 02:40:17
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: 13
You should drink one or two cups of water before embarking on a hike. Water keeps you hydrated, while food is the body’s main source of fuel and salts (electrolytes) – you need both to prevent dehydration. Sweating causes you to lose electrolytes, which can make hiking more difficult. Adding electrolyte tablets or a sports drink to your pack is an easy way to stay at the top of your game. You shouldn’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water, because that means you’re already dehydrated and not performing at the top of your game. You should replenish fluids and electrolytes by drinking one half to one quart of water every hour you’re hiking. For variety, consider alternating between plain water and a sports drink with electrolytes. This will retain fluids, maintain energy, balance electrolyte levels, and thus make hiking more enjoyable.
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