Do you really need electrolytes? | Nutritionist Explains | Myprotein

Do you actually need electrolytes? Electrolyte drinks, powders, tablets, and supplements are everywhere, promising better hydration, improved performance, and faster recovery. But does the average person actually need to supplement electrolytes? In this video, expert nutritionist Dr Richie Kirwan explains what electrolytes do, when electrolyte supplements can be useful, and whether drinking plain water is enough to keep you properly hydrated. Key Facts: Electrolytes are minerals including sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium that perform important functions throughout the body. You naturally get electrolytes through the foods and drinks in your normal diet. For most everyday activities and shorter workouts, water and a balanced diet are generally enough to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. You lose both water and electrolytes, particularly sodium, through sweat. Electrolyte drinks can become more useful during prolonged exercise, heavy sweating, hot conditions, or when you're losing significant amounts of fluid. How much you need depends on factors including exercise duration and intensity, climate, sweat rate, and your individual diet.