Electrolytes

Hydration is therefore about more than water alone. The body continually regulates the balance between water and electrolytes inside and outside its cells. When we sweat, particularly during exercise, warmer weather or prolonged activity, we lose both fluid and electrolytes. Sodium and chloride are lost in the greatest quantities, alongside potassium and magnesium, which is why replacing water is only part of the hydration picture.

Each electrolyte has a distinct role:

Sodium is one of the principal electrolytes in the fluid surrounding our cells and is closely involved in fluid regulation and the electrical signals used by nerves and muscles. 

Potassium is concentrated primarily inside cells and works alongside sodium to maintain the electrical gradients that allow nerve impulses to travel and muscles to function. 

Magnesium contributes to normal electrolyte balance, muscle function, nervous system function and energy-yielding metabolism. 

Chloride works closely with sodium and forms an important part of the body’s overall fluid and electrolyte balance.

The relationship between these minerals is important. Electrolytes do not work in isolation. Sodium and potassium, for example, exist in very different concentrations inside and outside our cells, and the controlled movement of these charged minerals across cell membranes is part of what allows the nervous system to send signals throughout the body. The same electrical activity is involved every time a muscle contracts or relaxes. 

This becomes particularly relevant when fluid and mineral losses increase. Exercise, heat and heavy perspiration can all increase electrolyte losses through sweat. Endurance athletes may experience this at the extreme end, but the same basic physiology applies whenever we sweat: we are losing minerals as well as water. This is why electrolyte intake is commonly considered alongside fluid intake during longer periods of exercise, hot conditions and active days. 

InnerCode’s 18 Advanced Hydration brings four essential electrolytes together in one concentrated liquid formula: sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride. Each 2.5ml serving provides 125mg sodium, 133mg potassium, 45mg magnesium and 398mg chloride. 

At the heart of the formula is an Inland Sea Concentrate sourced from the Great Salt Lake, Utah, combined with purified water and potassium chloride. The result is a clear, unflavoured electrolyte concentrate with no sugars, flavourings or additives.

Unlike flavoured powders or conventional sports drinks, the liquid format can simply be added to water or another drink without adding sweetness or changing your routine. Just 2.5ml is added to one litre, making it an easy way to incorporate four key electrolytes into your everyday hydration.

Good hydration is not simply about how much water you drink. It is about maintaining the balance of water and essential minerals your body relies on to function.