Some Science
Countless coffee options - Same coffee problem
Coffee causes an electrolyte imbalance. Coffee drinkers and performance seekers feel more productive with a strong cup of Joe, but the dehydrating effects of coffee present as many downsides as benefits.
We set out to change that… Let's break it down
SODIUM |
POTASSIUM |
HYDRATION: Maintains water balance; Activates thirst response; Prevents water intoxication & hyponatremia PREVENTS CRAMPS: Enables normal muscle contraction Influences performance of other minerals; Enables nerve impulse transmission Maintains normal blood pressure |
HYDRATION: Maintains water balance ENERGIZES: Stimulates metabolism of proteins & carbohydrates; Helps muscles use glycogen, their main source of energy PREVENTS CRAMPS Prevents muscle fatigue; Enables normal muscle contraction; |
CALCIUM | Calcium is a key element in your body, but it does more than just build strong bones and teeth. It’s also used to control your muscles, transmit signals in your nerves, manage your heart rhythm and more. |
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HYDRATES: Maintains water balance; Prevents dehydration ENERGIZES: Helps the body break down protein, absorb minerals & vitamin B12 PREVENTS CRAMPS: Enables normal muscle contraction & relaxation Enables nerve impulse transmission |
ENERGIZES: Participates in the conversion of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which are the energy packets the body uses to produce and store energy; Stimulates the metabolism of carbohydrates & fats; Helps the body build proteins PREVENTS CRAMPS: Decreases pain from sports-related injuries & excessive physical activity; Enables normal muscle relaxation; Prevents muscle cramps & spasms Influences performance of other minerals; Enables nerve impulse transmission; Decreases vulnerability to disease; Alleviates symptoms of numerous medical and psychiatric conditions |
In addition to the functions listed above, studies show that repletion of one important electrolyte—magnesium—has a significant impact on athletic performance. Moderately trained athletes who took magnesium supplements showed decreased blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen intake. Triathletes supplementing with extra magnesium demonstrated improved cycling, swimming, and running times.
Now there has been a pretty lengthy history that is important to understand when it comes to electrolytes, and specifically sodium. Let’s dive a bit deeper into why we believe sodium is one of the most underrated electrolytes.
We like sodium - You should too
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently renewed its efforts to reduce the amount of salt consumed by Americans in an attempt to lower the risk of heart disease. The agency recommends that adults consume no more than 2.3 grams of sodium per day.
A large population study called The Intersalt Study, which analyzed data from 48 global populations, found that dietary salt intake was not linked to the prevalence of high blood pressure. In fact, the population with the highest salt intake had a lower median blood pressure than the population with the lowest intake. It is likely that other factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle and a diet high in processed foods, contribute to poor health outcomes rather than salt intake alone.
Overall, while it may be reasonable to suggest that SOME individuals reduce their salt intake, it is important to consider the limitations and biases of the evidence used to support blanket recommendations for the entire population. It is also crucial to recognize the potential role of other factors, such as diet and lifestyle, in influencing health outcomes.