This summer’s exceptionally hot weather got us all thinking about how to stay hydrated. Coincidentally the webinar I attended earlier in the year on the body’s fascia also focused on hydration. I wrote about it in a blog last March.
Following the webinar, I contemplated my own hydration needs and those of the clinic’s patients. Water alone may not be enough to keep the body well hydrated. In fact, excessive water consumption can result in mineral deficiencies as essential minerals (known as electrolytes) can be washed away. According to the NHS, when your body becomes low in electrolytes, bodily functions are impaired including muscle contractions.
So, I researched popular isotonic drinks marketed as a way for athletes and physically active people to stay hydrated. The term isotonic refers to having similar levels of salt and sugar in the human body. This is essential at a cellular level – both inside and outside each cell. The imbalance becomes most noticeable around the most active cells in the body – ie the muscles when very active, but the imbalance will be throughout. Rebalancing the body’s levels of salt and sugar is essential for those losing fluid through sweating. This level of hydration is only needed by those undertaking extreme levels of activity.
But what about the rest of us?
The NHS page on hydration recommends adding flavour to water by diluting cordial. However, you must be careful to avoid cordials with high sugar content. After much experimentation, I’ve developed a tasty hydration cordial and created a video to share with you on how I make it.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 100mls pressed ginger juice
- 500mls coconut water
- 100mls lemon juice
- 2 dessert spoons of honey
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Shake the ginger juice well and pour into a 1-litre jug or suitable container
- Add the lemon juice and honey and stir well
- Add salt and stir
- Add coconut water and stir well
- Pour into a bottle and store in the fridge
- Add a splash to your glass of water to taste and enjoy a boost to your hydration.
Note: this is not a true isotonic drink so quantities of ingredients can be adjusted according to individual taste.
Video instructions
Did you know that researchers have shown that Scottish heather honey contains similar properties to manuka honey? As we have amazing honey from local bees here in The New Forest why not get a jar from one of the many independent stockists in Lymington?
Whether you join me with my cordial recipe, infuse your water with fruit or have your own favourite refreshment – if you enjoy it you’ll drink it! Let us know what you think!