As the temperature soars, many will struggle in the heat. The hot weather can make you feel uncomfortable, irritable and tired. Trying to work in hot conditions seems to make the effort of work feel an awful lot harder than it may have been originally; the same applies to your regular sporting activities or hobbies. I for one know that any strenuous sport or dance activity that I have to do, I would if at all possible, try and schedule for when the sun goes down rather than when it is in its full shining glory. The heat will make you perspire without even attempting any physical activity let alone with the added exercise.
Electrolytes are lost in high concentrations through perspiration including sodium and chloride. Lower concentrations include potassium, magnesium and calcium. Excessive loss of these important electrolytes during severe physical endurance can hinder the maintenance of stable and physiological conditions that allow the body to carry out its functions. The loss can lead to decreased performance as well as medical problems from minor cramps to severe decreased consciousness, hallucinations, coma and even death.
Replacing these electrolytes with rapid and complete restoration of fluid balance during or after any exercise is an important part of the recovery process, especially during hot, humid conditions.
There are many energy drinks on the market but choosing one wisely will make all the difference to how you feel. Remember many may use sugar that will give you a quick energy rush followed by a quick drop. Finding one that uses organic natural fruit or alternative natural sweetening from nature will be better than those full of refined sugars. A good one to try is Flyte –www.flytedrink.com – there are various exotic fruit flavours and it states to be 100% from natural sources. There are many others you could choose from or try making your own energy smoothie from food sources that contain nutrients that are required for particular symptoms, for example use tomatoes for muscle cramps or dizziness, salt to replace the sodium. Some salt, fruits and vegetables like lettuce for chloride are known to be good for irregular heartbeat. Bananas, potatoes with skin or yoghurt for potassium are good for muscle weakness or mental confusion. Use halibut, spinach or pumpkin seeds for magnesium, and fish, dairy produce for calcium for muscle spasms and osteoporosis.
Don’t forget your water with the above to keep you hydrated with essential electrolytes!
Love and sparkles,
Samsara x