Electrolytes are more than just a buzzword – much, much more. These essential minerals – including sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride, phosphate, and bicarbonate – play a key role in maintaining the body's balance. From hydration to muscle function and nerve signalling, electrolytes are vital for everyday health and performance.

 

Despite their importance, many people disregard their role in everyday health, writing them off as something only relevant to athletes, ‘gym bros’ or those who break regular sweats. However, research suggests electrolyte balance is essential to everything from cognitive function to nerve transmission, and, some say, even longevity. We look at the role of electrolytes, their place in our collection and their profound impact on the overall health of all of us.

 

What are electrolytes?

 

Electrolytes are key to hydration, muscle support and energy production. Whether working out, travelling, or just going about your daily routine, these essential minerals keep your body in balance. When we sweat, or go long hours without electrolytes, we risk dehydration, muscle fatigue and exhaustion, which is why it’s important to rehydrate with the right combination of minerals and protein.

 

Electrolytes and exercise, performance and recovery

 

For those who have a workout regime – whether moderate or intense – electrolyte balance is key. Sweat contains significant amounts of sodium, potassium and chloride and blocks of physical activity can lead to imbalances that can make hitting your personal best and then recovering that little bit trickier.

 

Hydration and endurance

 

Dehydration, even at mild levels, can throw a spanner in the works when it comes to your endurance and cognitive function. Sodium plays a key role here, helping to prevent dehydration while maintaining blood pressure during your workout. WelleCo’s recent drop, The HydroProtein Elixir delivers three key electrolytes into cells, one of which is sodium (the others include magnesium and potassium) andis selected for its significant role in hydration and maintaining overall physiological balance in the body.

 

Muscle function

 

Electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium help regulate muscle function, meaning fewer inconvenient muscle cramps throughout your Pilates class. Deficiencies in these minerals can lead to spasms and weakness, whereas maintaining balance here can enhance muscle function, helping you meet your goals.

 

Post-workout peace

 

Replenishing electrolytes after exercise is essential for recovery and it's not just for our athletes. Our founder, Elle Macpherson uses The HydroProtein Elixir to hydrate daily. “I like to think of The HydroProtein Elixir as WelleCo’s alternative to a sports drink,” she says. “Delivering both protein and electrolytes to the body. And fast – just add water.”

 

Athletes turn to sports drinks post-game to rehydrate and support recovery. These formulas help replace fluids lost through sweat while restoring key electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Together, they support cellular hydration, reduce fatigue and help the body bounce back, preparing you for your next round.

 

Beyond your workout: The role of electrolytes in everyday wellness

 

As mentioned earlier, electrolytes are vital off-ground too, beyond just your workouts. Cognitive function, cardio health and metabolic balance all require electrolytes for peak performance.

 

Cognitive function and clarity

 

Proper electrolyte balance is essential for brain function. Sodium and potassium enable neurons to transmit signals efficiently, and imbalances can lead to confusion, dizziness, and even neurological disorders. Dehydration and electrolyte depletion can contribute to brain fog, making adequate intake important for maintaining mental clarity.

 

Electrolytes and aging

 

As we age, our ability to regulate fluids and electrolytes declines. Older women are at higher risk for both dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, making proper hydration all important when it comes to healthy aging and quality of life.

 

Sources of electrolytes

 

The good news is that a balanced diet can provide electrolytes. Some of the best natural sources include:

 

• Sodium: Sea salt, miso, fermented foods.

• Potassium: Bananas, sweet potatoes, avocados, leafy greens

• Magnesium: Nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, whole grains.

• Calcium: Dairy products, leafy greens, almonds

• Chloride: Table salt, seaweed, tomatoes

• Phosphate: Meat, dairy, nuts, legumes

 

Meeting our electrolyte needs through diet can be enough, however certain situations, such as intense exercise or excessive sweating, can warrant supplementation. High-quality electrolytes in the form of powders or drinks help in this area, but it is important to choose products without excessive sugars or artificial additives (like our vegan HydroProtein Elixir, which does not have gluten, dairy, soy, or nuts and is naturally flavoured and sweetened).

 

Electrolytes are necessary to stay hydrated, keep muscles working and keep the brain healthy. Despite their frequent mention in the context of exercise, electrolytes hold equal importance for everyday wellness. By making sure we get enough electrolytes, we can support our very best physical and mental performance, speed up recovery, and improve health in the long run.

 

How The HydroProtein Elixir changes the game

 

Formulated with a premium blend of sodium, potassium, and magnesium, The HydroProtein Elixir supports electrolyte balance and delivers rapid hydration before, during, and after your workout. It also aids energy production, mental performance, assists skin collagen formation, and supports healthy hair and nails. With 15 grams of pea-derived protein per serving, it contributes to muscle maintenance and repair helping you meet your daily protein requirements.

 

Elle’s go-to for hydration

 

"I’ve always been passionate about hydration,” Elle says. Known for her morning hydration routine, Elle starts her day with litres of filtered water with lime and salt beside her bed, a routine she has held for years. “The HydroProtein Elixir is my new preferred way to boost my hydration and protein levels throughout the day so I can stay on top of my wellness whether I’m exercising, hiking or working,” Elle maintains.

 

WelleCommunity testimonials

 

Having launched in March, The HydroProtein Elixir now boasts almost 300 reviews from our happy WelleCommunity. Here are just a few of their favourable words:

“I enjoy a sauna after teaching yoga, it allows me time to pause and nourish. To maintain my hydration I drink the Wellco Hydroprotein Elixir. The Pomegrante flavour is my favourite and the convenience of mixing the powder with my mineral water in a glass or jar allows me to take it on the go.” – Rachael

 

“I am 69 years old and use The HydroProtein Elixir during my weight training workouts. They are not for the faint-hearted! After two weeks, I am enjoying the extra burst of energy this Elixir provides. The powder formulation dissolves quickly and easily just by shaking in a bottle of water. I still have enough energy in the tank to walk the dog and get my 10,000 steps in each day.” – Lynn

 

“I’ve just started incorporating the HydroProtein Elixir into my routine. It’s the easiest way to include a wellness boost into my day, alongside all the other great Welleco products.

I am feeling more hydrated and have improved muscle recovery after exercise and Pilates when using this. Looking forward to seeing longer term benefits from this.” – Scott

 

“I recently tried WelleCo's new Hydroprotein Elixir in Blackcurrant & Pomegranate flavour. The taste is refreshing and delicious, making it a pleasure to incorporate into my daily routine. Not only does it provide a fantastic boost of protein, but it also leaves me feeling energised and revitalised throughout the day. I've noticed a significant improvement in my overall well-being and recovery after workouts. This elixir has truly become a game-changer for my health and fitness journey. Highly recommend!’ — Rebecca

 

“I am a Super Elixir fan and added the HydroProtein Elixir to my mix. I love the refreshing flavour and was hydrated almost instantly after my spin class. Highly recommend” – Tracy

 

“There’s no better feeling than finishing a Pilates session, rehydrating, and feeling completely refreshed. The HydroProtein Elixir in passionfruit has been the perfect companion – light, fruity, and packed with clean protein and electrolytes. As someone who lives a travelling lifestyle, staying energised and nourished is essential. This beautiful elixir supports my skin, muscles, and overall wellness journey from the inside out wherever in the world I am.” – Nicola

 

Shop The HydroProtein Elixir now.

 

The information in this article is not intended to be taken as medical advice. We recommend consulting your primary healthcare professional before making any changes to your supplementary routine