What Are Electrolyte Tablets? A Guide To Uses And Benefits

If you work out at the gym, go running or have even just been stuck on the Tube on a hot sweaty day, it’s likely that you’ve heard someone talking about electrolytes. But what exactly are they, and why do some people take electrolyte tablets? They may sound rather scientific, but in fact electrolytes are just essential minerals that are found in the body.

Here’s a look at what electrolytes are and their role in the body, and when it might be worth topping up your levels with a tablet. 

Electrolytes explained

Electrolytes are minerals that are naturally present in our bodily fluids, such as blood sweat, and urine. When dissolved in fluid, they carry an electrical charge (hence the name) that helps the body to regulate some of its most important functions. These include:

• Hydration – Electrolytes help your cells absorb and retain water.

• Nerve function – They allow nerve signals to pass from your brain to your muscles.

• Muscle contraction – Every time you move, electrolytes are involved.

• pH balance – They keep your blood and tissues at the right acidity.

The main electrolytes in your body are:

• Sodium

• Potassium

• Magnesium

• Calcium

• Chloride

• Bicarbonate

• Phosphate

Even small imbalances can make you feel tired, dizzy, or weak, which is why maintaining the right levels is so important.

Why do we lose electrolytes?

If electrolytes occur naturally in the body, why do we need to top them up? In normal situations, we get a sufficient amount from eating a well balanced diet. Foods that are high in essential minerals include vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, legumes, lean meats, some fish and seafoods, and dairy products. 

Highly processed foods that are high in sugar, saturated fat, and refined carbohydrates contain few or no electrolytes. When we sweat, we are losing electrolytes along with water. The same goes for when we are ill with a vomiting or diarrhoea bug, or have been consuming a lot of dehydrating substances such as coffee or alcohol. 

Some common situations where you might need an electrolyte boost include:

• Exercise and sport – Long runs, cycle rides, or gym sessions cause fluid and electrolyte loss.

• Hot weather – Your body sweats more to cool down, which means more mineral loss.

• Illness and dehydration – Stomach bugs, fevers, or heavy sweating can drain electrolytes quickly.

• Travel – Long flights, jet lag, or changes in climate can leave you feeling drained and dehydrated.

• Alcohol – Drinking can dehydrate you and upset your electrolyte balance.

So, how do electrolyte tablets work?

Electrolyte tablets are dissolvable supplements that contain a blend of those key minerals. You simply drop one into water, let it fizz, and drink up. They’re designed to help you quickly replace lost electrolytes while also rehydrating your body. Most tablets contain:

• Sodium – Helps retain water and regulate fluid balance.

• Potassium – Prevents cramping and supports muscle function.

• Magnesium – Helps with energy production and muscle recovery.

• Calcium – Important for muscle contraction.

ORS rehydration tablets also contain a low calorie dose of glucose for optimum performance. They are also available in three scrumptious natural flavours: blackcurrant, lemon and strawberry; more appealing than plain water. Our formula aligns with World Health Organisation guidelines, and is vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free and halal. 

Why not just drink water?

Plain water should always be your first port of call when you’re thirsty. However, drinking large amounts of water without electrolytes can actually dilute the minerals in your body, especially if you’ve already lost a lot through sweat. This can sometimes lead to a condition called hyponatremia (low sodium levels), which can be potentially dangerous.

Electrolyte tablets strike a balance: they hydrate you while replenishing the minerals that water alone can’t provide.

Everyday uses for electrolyte tablets

Electrolyte tablets aren’t just for athletes running marathons. They can be helpful in everyday life too. Here are a few scenarios where they can lend a helping hand:

• After exercise: They speed up recovery and reduce the risk of muscle cramps.

• Hot days: Perfect for keeping your energy up during a heatwave.

• Workdays: If you sit in an air-conditioned office or commute a lot, electrolytes can help prevent that sluggish, “foggy” feeling.

• Hangovers: Rehydrating with electrolytes can make the morning after a little easier.

• Illness: They can support hydration during bouts of flu or stomach bugs.

• Travel: Ideal for long flights or trips to hot climates.

Supporting your body’s recovery

Electroyte tablets are an effective and fuss-free way to keep you on track, whether you’re an elite athlete or just battling through work on a warm day.