Get daily electrolytes by making homemade sports drinks.

Sometimes, water just isn't enough to recharge after losing minerals through exercise. Weekend sports warriors are often tempted to grab a sports drink after engaging in moderate exertion. However, those drinks may actually cause more problems than they solve. 

Many store-bought sports drinks contain up to 52.5 grams of sugar in a beverage that measures 32 ounces. This means that the athlete may actually be taking in more calories than they are burning. To avoid the intake of sugar and additional chemicals in these drinks, such as fruit-like flavors and artificial dyes, it is easy to make a version at home that might help to replenish electrolytes and minerals.

Coconut water may be the best base water for sports drinks. At just 46 calories per cup, it contains magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium, and calcium. This water contains both electrolytes and antioxidants. Researchers believe that coconut water may help to naturally balance blood sugar levels, prevent kidney stones, reduce blood cholesterol and reduce blood pressure levels.

People can make their own sports drinks at home. See recipe below:

Homemade Sports Drink

Ingredients:

• 1 quart coconut water, your favorite brewed herbal tea or plain water
• ¼ cup natural 100% juice of your choice
• ⅛ tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. calcium magnesium powder
• 1 Tbs. sweetener of your choice (e.g. honey, stevia, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients.
2. Store in fridge until ready to use.
3. Shelf life is a maximum of 4 days.