An electrolyte is a substance that produces an electrical charge when dissolved or consumed. Your body needs electrolytes to power a number of bodily functions required for survival. Whilst most people tend to associate electrolytes with energy drinks, they can also be found in a number of foods and prevent you from becoming dehydrated. Continue reading to find out which foods you should be consuming to boost your body’s electrolyte levels.
1. Spinach
If you are looking to boost your body’s electrolyte levels, spinach should be one of the first items on your weekly shopping list. As well as being crammed full of calcium and magnesium, it is also one of the best sources of electrolytes you can feed your body. For example, an 100g serving of spinach can provide you with 10% of your daily calcium intake. This also makes it a great dairy replacement for those intolerant or opposed to milk or cheese. Regular consumption can prevent you from feeling tired, fatigued, and sluggish. If you are not the biggest fan of spinach, an alternative leafy green vegetable will provide the exact same benefits.
2. Chia seeds
Chia seeds may be small, but they are jam-packed with energy-boosting vitamins and minerals. As an excellent source of healthy fats, fibre, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, they can be a welcome addition to any diet. A 10g serving will provide you with 8% of your daily magnesium intake. This can contribute to reduced muscle soreness, steady blood pressure, strong bones, and a regulated heart rhythm.
Chia seeds can also be enjoyed in a number of ways. If you are a big fan, try mixing them with milk or yoghurt to make chia seed pudding. If you are just looking for a quick energy-booster in the morning, try sprinkling them over your porridge or cereal. By familiarising yourself with how to get electrolytes into your diet, you can regulate your bodily fluids and control your blood pressure and in the long run. If you don’t know where to begin, check out this guide to getting more electrolytes.
3. Pumpkin seeds
Aside from tasting great, pumpkin seeds can also provide a wide range of health benefits for you and your body. They are loaded with healthy fats and magnesium, making them a great source of electrolytes in your diet. Just 20g of pumpkin seeds can provide you with 25% of your daily magnesium requirement.
Much like chia seeds, they can be sprinkled on cereal or porridge or even salads for an added crunch. Regular consumption can help you fight colds and strengthen your bones. Research has also pointed to a link between high magnesium intake and the prevention of a number of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and Alzheimer’s.
4. Bananas
Bananas may be most well-known for their high potassium content, but they are also a great source of electrolytes. With a large banana containing a relatively high level of magnesium, it can double your electrolyte intake for the day and release gradual bursts of energy on a regular basis. If you often find yourself suffering from poor concentration or falling asleep at your desk, it may benefit you to always keep a banana on hand at all times for a much-needed pick-me-up.
Magnesium has also been found to improve nerve and muscle function over time. By upping your magnesium intake, you can maintain good heart health, boost your immune system, regulate your blood pressure, and even steady your insulin levels. Most people don’t consume enough magnesium. Adding a banana to your breakfast or incorporating it as a mid-morning snack can be all it takes to increase your electrolyte levels.
5. Avocadoes
Avocadoes may be one of the most popular food trends to take the world by storm in recent years, but they are also one of the healthiest. Whether you are a fan of avocado on toast or prefer the taste of guacamole, they contain an abundance of healthy fats, potassium, magnesium, and zinc. They are also relatively low in sodium which makes them a great alternative to foods high in salt. A single avocado can provide you with a massive 950mg of potassium, 58g of magnesium, and 14g of sodium, making them one of the best foods to eat if you are looking to boost your electrolyte levels.
Electrolytes are crucial for the normal healthy functioning of the human body. As well as being found in energy drinks, there are also a number of foods you can consume to boost your body’s electrolyte levels. Over time, this can prevent the onset of a number of serious, or even fatal, health conditions. To boost your energy levels and prevent what is known as electrolyte imbalance, try upping your intake of spinach, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, bananas, and avocadoes.