Previously, Pendulum has debunked the myth that drinking eight glasses of water a day should be a hydration goal. We have also covered brands of bottled water that provide better hydration due to higher mineral content, versus brands that are essentially distilled water with minimal hydration value.
If you find yourself craving high-sugar drinks instead of a glass of water, you are not alone. Many people say they don’t like water, and most find the rough guideline of “8 glasses a day” completely unattainable.
To review, the idea of “8 glasses a day” originated in part from misinterpretations of outdated guidelines and was later reinforced by bottled water marketing campaigns. It doesn’t factor in a person’s size, gender, activity level, or diet. In fact, for some people, drinking that much water can lead to flushing out minerals and electrolytes that help cells utilize hydration.
Many bottled water companies and sports drinks advertise “high electrolytes,” while adding so much sugar and artificial coloring that they can be more of a health risk than a benefit when consumed in large amounts. Brands like Smartwater, which specifically market added electrolytes, actually have much lower electrolyte content than certain brands sourced from natural springs.
The role of electrolytes and minerals is often misunderstood. The premise of “eight glasses of water” also ignores hydration quality. Quality hydration relies on electrolytes and minerals to support cellular function, with many benefits for the body. Fluids low in minerals and electrolytes are often quickly excreted by the body.
There are many foods and drinks that are not water or “sports drinks” that deliver high levels of electrolytes and minerals that the body needs to feel hydrated.
Coconut Water:
Coconut water has earned the title of “nature’s sports drink.” Its high potassium content and balanced ratio of other minerals make it a superior hydration source. It also has an optimal potassium-to-sodium ratio. Its overall mineral profile is similar to human plasma, making it an efficient way to rehydrate. Low-sugar brands like Harmless Harvest with young coconuts are even more ideal.
Cucumber:
Unsurprisingly, spa water may offer more benefits than just light flavoring. “Cucumbers, with their 95 percent water content, offer silica and trace minerals that nourish connective tissue and skin.” — Amina Mundi Herbals
Pickles & Fermented Foods:
Fermented foods like kimchi and pickles pack even more hydration power. These vegetables are high in sodium, which helps the body retain water. The vegetables and their brine are also rich in electrolytes and minerals like magnesium that enhance hydration benefits. However, it’s important to check that the brine used in some brands should only have a couple of ingredients and not include sugar or other preservatives. Studies have shown that the vinegar and sodium in pickle juice can help relieve muscle cramps.
Hibiscus:
An iced hibiscus tea might also help. Like citrus, it contains tartaric acid, which can aid electrolyte balance, and its flavor is thirst-quenching. Adding a touch of raw honey or maple syrup can contribute additional minerals and electrolytes to help replenish and hydrate.
