Electrolytes: Why Hydration Needs More Than Just Water

Once upon a time, electrolytes were mostly known for those rehydration sachets you took after a stomach bug, or something you'd associate with elite athletes. But they’re now becoming a much more everyday conversation, and on that we are welcoming with open arms.

More people are beginning to understand how important they are for general health and energy, and with that, the questions that naturally follow are what exactly are electrolytes? Why do we need them? And isn’t drinking good old water enough? The short answer is, water is important, but hydration without electrolytes is like trying to drive a car without fuel.

We’re not just talking Dioralyte after a night out or when you’re away with a dodgy tummy, we mean the kind of daily support electrolytes offer that helps your cells actually absorb water, your muscles function properly, your skin stay plump, and your energy stay steady.

Electrolytes are mineral salts dissolved in the body's blood and fluid. They carry an electrical charge and tend to balance themselves with another electrolyte of the opposite charge to remain neutral. These charged minerals help with fluid transport throughout the body and are essential for moving fluids in and out of cells, transporting hormones and nutrients, and keeping everything from your heart rhythm to your hydration in check.

We obtain them through the water we drink and the food we eat. Plants pull minerals from the soil, and we absorb them either directly (like with greens, root veg, nuts and seeds) or indirectly through animal products. Unrefined sea salt and Himalayan salt contain over 80 trace minerals, and when dissolved in water, they become ionic, meaning they hold a charge and are bioavailable.

We lose them through sweat and urine, and even more so during exercise, heat, illness (like vomiting or diarrhoea), stress, caffeine and alcohol. That’s why it’s so important to replace them regularly.

Minerals (electrolytes included) are required for every function in the body. They’re involved in nerve communication, muscle contraction, nutrient transport, pH balance, and even cellular energy production.

Because electrolytes regulate the concentration of fluids inside and outside our cells, they directly impact hydration. If you're low, water alone won’t hydrate you effectively, in fact, too much water without enough minerals can actually deplete your electrolyte levels further, flushing them out via urine. That’s why water quality and mineral content matter.

For anyone who exercises, sweats a lot, fasts, or generally feels depleted or low on energy, electrolytes are essential.

While 96% of the body is made up of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen, the remaining 4% is made up of minerals. And, even though that sounds small, that 4% plays a massive role.

There are macro minerals (needed in larger amounts) and trace minerals (needed in much smaller amounts), and many of them act as electrolytes when dissolved in bodily fluids.

The four primary electrolytes we focus on are:

• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Sodium
• Potassium

Here is a quick table to understand about them more:

Now that you know the basics, you might be wondering, what's the best way to get electrolytes in? We’ve got two products we absolutely love, and we want to walk you through both, so you can decide which one’s best for you.

Let’s start with the OG, Viridian Electrolyte Fix. This has been out favourite for years, and our customers absolutely love it. It’s simple, incredibly effective and budget friendly too. The formula is made from a naturally occurring brine extracted from the Great Salt Lake in Utah, which is one of the most mineral rich inland seas in the world.

That’s important because:

• The minerals are ionic, which means they’re already charged and ready to be absorbed. So, no extra work for the body.
• This mineral profile has evolved naturally over millions of years, not synthetically designed, and includes both the four main electrolytes and trace minerals like boron, zinc and selenium, which are cofactors that support enzyme function, hormone production, and detoxification.

This makes them highly effective at supporting:

• Nerve signalling and muscle contraction
• Rehydration after intense sweating, illness, or sauna
• Energy levels and electrolyte balance
• Alkalising support, thanks to minerals like magnesium and potassium that help buffer acidity

If electrolytes aren’t in ionic form, your body has to do more work to break them down and absorb them, which can reduce their efficiency, especially when you need them fast (like post workout, during illness, or when fasting).

Because it’s highly concentrated, you only need a small amount. But be warned, it’s salty. Definitely dilute it (we suggest 1/2 tsp in at least 1L water, even with a little lemon). It’s not your usual post yoga coconut water, it’s a solid electrolyte top up.

Per serving you will find

• Chloride – 398mg
• Potassium – 132mg
• Sodium – 127mg
• Magnesium – 46mg
• Plus over 70 trace minerals from the natural brine

This is ideal if you sweat a lot, do hot yoga, run, fast, use the sauna often, or are simply prone to feeling lightheaded when standing up too quickly.

We really love this one. Ancient + Brave have taken a completely different approach, creating a formula that not only supports hydration, but also gut health, skin, and energy. And it’s becoming increasingly popular, they even reported recently that they’ve had a 36% increase in sales, and their following is growing fast (which is no surprise - have you seen their packaging?!).

A little twist on the usual electorate formulations. Here’s what’s you’ll find inside:

Coconut Water Powder: Nature’s original electrolyte drink, coconut water is rich in potassium, with smaller amounts of magnesium, calcium, and sodium. It has been used for centuries to help restore minerals lost through sweat or fasting. It’s lovely in this formulation, as it add a nice subtle, sweet flavour, so it’s more pleasant to drink.

Chicory Root Inulin (Prebiotic Fibre): This adds a gut friendly twist as inulin is a prebiotic fibre that feeds beneficial bacteria in your gut. Not only does this support digestion and immune health, but a happy, thriving gut also helps with mineral absorption, so your body actually uses what you give it.

Magnesium Citrate: One of the most absorbable forms of magnesium, supporting muscle relaxation, hydration, energy production, and calm nervous system function. It’s also brilliant for managing cramps or that heavy, dragging fatigue, especially during busy or stressful times.

TriSodium Citrate & Pink Himalayan Salt: These provide sodium, which often gets a bad rap, but it’s vital for hydration, especially if you sweat, fast, or exercise. Sodium helps move water into your cells, where it’s actually useful. Himalayan salt also brings natural trace minerals like zinc, calcium, and iodine.

Calcium Malate: A bioavailable, well tolerated form of calcium which supports bones and teeth, but also plays a role in muscle contraction and hydration. Malate also plays a role in the Krebs cycle, which helps with cellular energy, which is why this can feel more energising than a typical electrolyte powder.

TriPotassium Citrate: Potassium is often overlooked, but it’s essential for heart health, kidney function, and fluid balance. This form is gentle on the stomach and helps regulate blood pressure and support the body’s acid-alkaline balance, especially helpful if you drink coffee, alcohol, or eat a high protein diet.

Chromium Picolinate: Quite a rare addition, but we are all for it. This clever inclusion helps stabilise blood sugar during fasting or after exercise, it may reduce cravings or energy dips, and is especially helpful when hydrating during intermittent fasting or ketogenic diets. It’s also great for those who struggle with mid morning or mid afternoon slumps.

I’m sure by now, you can see why we love this one. What makes True Hydration so special is that it’s not just about replacing lost salts, it’s about supporting your whole system, especially under stress, fasting, or modern day exhaustion. You’re getting electrolytes in bioavailable, buffered forms, gut and blood sugar support, in a mineral blend designed for daily wellness, not just sports performance

PS: Another ionic supplement that we want to briefly mention, is KIKI Health Ionic Electrolytes Liquid Concentrate. We know this feature is about Viridian and Ancient + Brave, but we had to add in a little mention as it’s also a really good option.

Very similar to Viridian, this is an ionic electrolyte mineral drops, containing magnesium, potassium, calcium and sea salt. The only addition is chromium chloride, which, as we mentioned before, is a key mineral to support blood sugar balance and sustained energy.

This is a good option if you were swaying to the Viridian Electrolytes, but liked the idea of blood glucose support and steady energy in the Ancient + Brave.

So… Which One’s Right for You?

And, if you’re still not sure, then….

We love a DIY mineral boost, and this potassium rich broth is one of our favourites. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a gentler, food based way to support hydration, especially after stress, travel, or during a cleanse. It’s also a gorgeous way to get extra potassium, especially if you’re not keen on bananas or coconut water.

You’ll Need:

• 25% potato peelings (organic white or sweet potato)
• 25% carrot + beetroot peeling
• 25% chopped onions and garlic
• 25% celery and leafy greens (celery tops, parsley, spinach, kale)
• Optional: A little fresh chilli or ginger for heat
• Optional: Fresh thyme, bay leaf or rosemary
• Spring or filtered water (enough to cover)
• (Use organic where possible — especially for skins, as that’s where most minerals live)

Method:

• Add all ingredients to a large stock pot or slow cooker.
• Cover generously with spring/filtered water.
• Simmer gently for 2–4 hours (or slow cook overnight).
• Strain through a fine sieve or muslin.
• Press or squeeze the veggies to extract every last drop of mineral-rich liquid.
• Pour into a flask or jar and sip throughout the day. It’s earthy, mineral rich, and deeply grounding. A great addition to any hydration routine.

Keep It Fresh:

• Make a fresh batch every 2 days during a cleanse or low-mineral phase.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Optional: Freeze in cubes to add to soups, stews, or teas later.

Are Electrolytes Right for You?

Electrolytes aren’t just for athletes or people recovering from illness. They’re for anyone who wants more consistent energy, better hydration, or fewer symptoms like bloating, cramps, or mood dips.

Whether you’re a fan of pure no fuss formulas like Viridian, or you want a daily wellness blend like True Hydration, the key is consistency, and understanding what your body actually needs.

Hydration isn’t just about how much you drink. It’s about what your cells can actually absorb. And electrolytes are the missing piece for many of us.