It’s 3 pm, your eyes are heavy, your focus is slipping, and you instinctively reach for that second (maybe third) cup of coffee. What you might not have known, though, is that your body might not be craving caffeine at all. It could be crying out for electrolytes.
Yes, electrolytes — those unsung heroes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium — are essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle performance, according to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
The publication adds that when your levels dip, you don’t just feel tired — you feel flat-out drained, and therefore electrolyte imbalances can lead to fatigue, confusion, headaches, and muscle cramps.
It’s not just athletes who need to replenish; everyday activities like sweating on a hot day, drinking too much coffee (ironically), or skipping meals can deplete these minerals, claims the Cleveland Clinic. The clinic notes that dehydration is a common culprit behind midday crashes, and chugging more coffee only worsens the issue.
Instead, think hydration with purpose, try coconut water, which naturally contains potassium and magnesium, as mentioned by the above clinic. Very Well Mind also suggests sea salt and a squeeze of lemon into your water bottle. Sports drinks are considered safe, but opt for the low-sugar kind. Even a banana and a glass of water can do wonders for perking you up naturally, according to the mentioned publication.
If you’re constantly reaching for caffeine to stay alert but still feel sluggish (like me all the time), your body might be telling you it needs more than a shot of espresso; maybe it’s time to reach for a mineral fix instead.
Also see: Tips to manage caffeine withdrawal
