Water Wisdom - Mayu Water Blog

Know Your H2O

Receive news and insights on the current state and impact of our water and explore the benefits of aerated, mineral-rich water.

A woman holding a bottle of fruit-infused water.

Structured water H2O Hacks: 5 Ways to Drink More Water When It’s a Struggle Drinking water is essential for maintaining health and preventing dehydration, as the human body uses water for almost everything. Despite its numerous benefits, such as regulating body temperature, lubricating joints, keeping skin, hair, and nails healthy, reproducing cells, and flushing waste, many people wonder why they struggle to drink water. With a daily goal of about 125 ounces (3.7 liters) for men and 91 ounces (2.7 liters) for women, the bland and tasteless nature of water offers no instant gratification and is easily forgotten. To help you live a healthier life, we'll cover the best ways to increase water intake and explain how to drink water correctly through 5 strategies. 5 Tips to Drink More Water The best way to drink water is to have a plan or strategy that is easy to follow. Here are 5 ways to drink more water: Set a daily goalReplace all your drinks with waterFlavor your waterEat more water-based vegetables and fruitsBuild the habit into your daily routine 1. Set a Daily Goal Setting a specific goal can help you increase your daily water intake and stay motivated. Identify obstacles, such as forgetfulness or disliking water's taste, and create a realistic target. If you currently do not drink much water, aim for 4 cups a day initially. Determine a reason to achieve your daily water goals, like the health benefits of water or improved digestion. Write down your goal and keep it in a visible location, such as at your desk or in a daily planner. 2. Replace all Your Drinks with Water Replacing sweetened, caffeinated, and carbonated drinks with water can boost your health and reduce calorie intake. Sodas and sports drinks are full of added sugars detrimental to your health. These beverages can lead to dehydration, weight gain, sugar cravings, and lethargy. Drinking water, on the other hand, can speed up your metabolism, burn calories faster, regulate blood sugar levels, and keep sugar cravings at bay, promoting better overall health. 3. Flavor Your Water This advice may sound all well and good, but how to drink more water when you don't like it? If you don't like the taste of water, here are some healthy ways to flavor it. Most flavored drinks contain empty calories, sugar, or sugar substitutes. Using a fruit-infuser water bottle, add fruit slices to your water, such as cucumber and lime, or lemon, apples, and oranges. Alternatively, add fruits to your ice cube tray along with water, freeze, and use these fruit-flavored ice cubes in your water. This approach makes water even more refreshing and improves its taste. » Want more excitement than plain water? Learn more about structured water 4. Eat Water-Based Vegetables and Fruits Drinking enough water can be a struggle for most people. A simple way to increase water intake is to consume more water-rich fruits and vegetables: Watermelon - 92% water, contains antioxidants, high in potassiumCucumber - 96% water, low in calories, source of vitamins and fiberZucchini - 95% water, rich in vitamin B6, good for regulating blood glucoseLettuce - 95% water, contains Vitamin C, folic acid, and potassiumCantaloupe - 89% water, contains potassium and fiber 5. Build the Habit Into Your Daily Routine To start the habit of drinking water, link it to a common daily activity, like drinking a glass of water after every bathroom break, after waking up, or with every meal. Carry a water bottle with you to ensure access to water. Additionally, set reminders on your phone to avoid forgetting and prevent dehydration. Make sure to drink more water if you exercise or are sick. The Power of Structured Water Structured water, which is purer and free from chemicals, hydrates and detoxifies your body better than ordinary tap or bottled water. Similar to uncontaminated natural water found in glaciers, structured water provides superior health benefits. To maximize your hydration efforts, consider making your own structured water at home using the Mayu Swirl Water Pitcher. With these five strategies and the incorporation of structured water, you'll be well on your way to conquering your hydration struggles and achieving better health.

A sick woman in bed with a glass of water to hydrate.

Water for health H2O Heals: How to Stay Hydrated When You're Sick When we're sick, staying adequately hydrated is crucial for speeding up recovery. This is because drinking water flushes out toxins, supports organ function, and can help the skin and mucus cell membrane ward off bacteria. When you're dehydrated because of the natural fluid loss that comes with being sick, you'll struggle to regulate your body's temperature and your sickness can worsen. So, here are some tips on how to stay hydrated when you're sick. » Not sure how to hydrate properly? Check out the healthiest types of water to drink Why Does Staying Hydrated Help a Cold? You may be wondering if being sick dehydrates you. When you're sick, the combination of symptoms like vomiting, high fever, and diarrhea, and the reduced desire to eat and drink can throw your body's fluid balance off and decrease your electrolytes. This hampers cellular function, which can slow down recovery. Symptoms like fever, sweating, and increased mucus production can cause fluid loss. The body's increased need to replenish lost fluids results in thirstiness. Dehydration from the flu or cold can cause other symptoms like: Shortness of breathFatigueDry mouthLess frequent and dark-colored urineConfusionLight-headedness Staying properly hydrated is not only beneficial for relieving symptoms of the cold and flu but also plays a vital role in boosting your immune system. Adequate cellular hydration helps white blood cells effectively combat viruses and promotes better blood circulation. Hydration can help alleviate nasal irritation caused by common cold symptoms like coughing. Plus, it can loosen mucus and ease congestion, providing relief and aiding a faster recovery. How to Hydrate Fast When You’re Sick To help you hydrate quickly when you're sick, try the following: Water: You can add lemon to your water to get a boost of vitamin C, which is important for strengthening your immune system and adding a special flavor to your water. Try to get between 6 and 8 glasses of water per day.Tea: Another beverage that can quickly hydrate you is tea. Opt for herbal tea with ginger to boost your immune system or soothe an upset stomach. Adding honey can also help calm a cough.Soup: Soup is rich in water and contains essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium, which replenish lost fluids. The warmth of soup soothes a sore throat, eases nasal congestion, reduces inflammation, and helps thin mucus. When you have a reduced appetite, soups provide important calories.Electrolyte-containing fluids: If you're experiencing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating, you can lose essential electrolytes along with fluids. Electrolyte water can help regulate the body's hydration levels and supports various bodily functions, such as cognitive skills. Tip: Instead of drinking large amounts of water at once, take frequent small sips every 10 minutes. This can be easier on your stomach and help prevent nausea. » Check out these 5 ways to drink more water when it's a struggle Stay Hydrated: A Key to Faster Healing During Sickness The quality of water is as important as drinking an adequate amount of it, especially when sick. The water should be free from chemicals and contaminants. And the Mayu Swirl—a carafe to enhance and aerate water—can help you achieve this. This product promotes great-tasting, mineral-rich water, providing you with the high-quality hydration you need during illness. Additionally, to keep up your electrolytes—such as magnesium, potassium, and others— consider using MAYU Water's Electrolyte Drops. These drops offer a healthier alternative to sports drinks and sugary electrolyte-containing beverages, offering a convenient and effective way to balance your fluid levels for a successful recovery.

Person pouring water from a plastic bottle into a glass

Water quality 3 Steps to Naturally Increase the pH of Drinking Water Generally, the pH level of water varies between 6.5 and 8.5, and drinking water too far out of this range may not be safe. Normal drinking water has a neutral pH of 7. Once the pH level reaches 8 or 9, water is considered alkaline. Alkaline water has a higher number of alkalizing minerals than the minerals in tap water. Advocates of alkaline water consider this to be the healthiest water and believe that drinking water with a higher pH can neutralize the acid in the body. How to Increase the pH of Water Naturally Step 1: Test Water's pH LevelsStep 2: Increase Water AlkalinityStep 3: Check pH Levels Again 3 Easy Steps to Raise pH in Water 1. Start by Testing Your Water’s pH Level Whether you're drinking filtered water from a bottle, using an at-home water filter, or drinking tap water, it's possible to test your water's pH level. There are two easy ways to do this: Using a pH Meter Fill up a clean container with water and let it sit for a few minutes to stabilize. Ensure the water level covers the tip of the electrode to get an accurate reading. Place the probe into the container and allow enough time to pass for the meter to reach equilibrium. You can read the pH meter to get the results of your water sample. You can purchase a pH meter at any hardware store.Using pH Papers This is a simple and accurate way to test the pH of your water. Fill up a clean container and make sure it's deep enough to cover the testing strip. Dip the test strip into the container of water for a few seconds. Once the strip changes color, you can match it to the chart provided to see the pH level. You can buy pH papers at almost any drug or grocery store. 2. Add an Alkaline Substance to Your Water If your water is neutral, or even on the acidic side, there are some natural substances you can add to increase its alkalinity. Fresh Lemon Although lemon juice is acidic, adding it to your water in small amounts has an alkalizing effect on the body. Lemons are anionic, so once you drink the water, it becomes alkaline as your body reacts with the lemon's anions. Squeeze the juice from one fresh lemon into 8 glasses of water to sip on throughout the day. Baking Soda Baking soda is a simple ingredient found in most kitchens. Baking soda sits at around 8.4 on the pH scale. The effect of baking soda will depend on your water's current pH level, and you won't be able to raise it past 8.4. How much baking soda to add to raise the pH in drinking water? Mixing in 1 tsp (4 g) of baking soda with 250 ml of water will raise its pH, making it more alkaline. Milk of Magnesia Milk of magnesia is an alkaline suspension, which means it causes neutralization when it encounters anything acidic. This makes this substance great for water on the more acidic side. Milk of magnesia comes in liquid form with a dosing cap or in tablet form. Add one dose to 8 glasses of water to sip on throughout the day. pH Drops pH drops contain potent, concentrated alkaline minerals. These drops can be purchased from health stores or online. Follow the specific instructions on the pH drops bottle when it comes to putting them in your water. 3. Check Your Water’s pH Again Once you've added your chosen substance to your drinking water, check the water's pH level again to ensure it's between 8 and 9 and not too high. While drinking water with a higher pH is likely safe, be mindful of how your body reacts and drop the alkalinity if there are adverse reactions. Upgrade Your Water for Healthier Hydration » Read about alkaline vs. living, structured water Health Benefits of Drinking Higher-pH Water While there isn't much research to support the health benefits of drinking alkaline water, many health professionals believe there are advantages. Better hydration A study done in 2017 showed that alkaline water had a positive effect on hydration, especially after a workout. It also has a positive effect on the pH of urine.Improved digestion Alkaline water is considered therapeutic by many people who suffer from acid reflux. Alkaline water can aid digestion by reducing acidity in the intestinal tract and permanently destroying any pepsin that's present. Pepsin is one of the main contributors to acid reflux.Slowed aging process Research has suggested that drinking alkaline water slows down the aging process and may result in a longer lifespan. Better bone health Some research has shown that alkaline water has a positive effect on bone resorption, the process where the tissue in bones is broken down and absorbed by the body. Reducing Acidity for a Healthier You Reducing the body's overall acidity level achieves a more desirable and less inflammatory state, which puts you at less risk for chronic disease. Drinking alkaline water is a safe and natural way to boost your overall well-being.

Woman pouring clean, filtered water surrounded by nutrient-rich food

Water for health Nourish Your Body: How Food and Water Choices Impact Your Health What we fuel our bodies with is the cornerstone of our health. The impact of the food we eat and the water we drink on our overall well-being cannot be overstated. We'll delve into how mindful choices about our nutrition and hydration can significantly enhance our vitality and longevity. Embrace Nutrient-Rich Foods Eating nutrient-rich foods is more than just ticking off the daily quota of fruits and veggies. It's about providing your body with a robust range of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. For example, oranges are high in vitamin C, which strengthens immunity, while lean proteins like turkey breast help repair body tissues. Be creative and colorful with your meals to ensure a mix of these powerhouse nutrients. The Hidden Pitfalls of Processed Foods Processed foods, though convenient, often carry hidden health hazards. Laden with unhealthy fats, added sugars, and artificial ingredients, they do more harm than good. Watch out for notorious red flags like high fructose corn syrup and unpronounceable ingredients. Choosing whole foods closer to their natural state, like a ripe avocado over a pack of chips, can lead to transformative health benefits. Hydrate Mindfully for Optimal Health Staying hydrated is more than quenching thirst; it's about supporting our body and its proper functioning. As we discuss health and nutrition, it's worth noting this profound insight from a recent podcast on Mayu Water: People who are passionate about living healthier often focus intensely on their food. What we're aiming to do is highlight the importance of water, because it's actually the largest substance intake for your body. While we can't confirm that there aren't other sources of toxins affecting you, there's no denying that water is a significant medium for potential toxic intake. Just as we're mindful of what we eat, it's crucial to pay attention to the water we drink. Filtration methods can remove impurities and toxic substances present in water. You can also consider adding minerals to ultra-purified or desalinated water for cleaner hydration. Mindful Eating: Savor Every Bite Being attuned to your body's hunger and fullness cues is vital in maintaining a healthy balance. When we slow down and savor our meals, we engage our senses and pay attention to signals of satiety. This approach not only prevents overeating but promotes better digestion. Consider keeping a food diary or practicing mindful eating meditation to strengthen this connection. Tune Into Your Body's Unique Needs Our bodies are as unique as we are, and honoring this individuality can enhance our health. Listen to your body's cues and adapt your diet to meet these unique needs. Whether it's accommodating an active lifestyle or managing an underlying health condition, personalized nutrition is the key to optimized health. Embarking on a Healthful Journey Transforming your health through mindful food and water choices is an empowering journey. By nourishing your body with nutrient-dense foods and quality water, you equip it with the essentials it needs to thrive. Remember, even small changes can lead to significant health improvements. Embrace this balanced approach to nourishment and witness the positive ripple effect it has on your vitality and life quality.

a bottle sitting on top of a moss covered rock

Water quality Troubled Water: Exploring the Challenges and Solutions for Clean Drinking Water In a world where over 8 billion people are facing increasing water scarcity, the need for clean and safe drinking water has become a pressing global issue. Seth Seigel, a renowned water expert, has dedicated his life to raising awareness about the water crisis and advocating for solutions. We'll delve into an enlightening conversation with Seth Seigel, where he shares his passion for water, the challenges of water scarcity, and the alarming realities of water quality. Water Quantity and Scarcity Seth Seigel's journey into water advocacy began with a deep concern for water scarcity and its potential consequences. As the world's population continues to grow, the demand for higher-quality food increases, posing a threat to agricultural land and water resources. Seth emphasizes the need to address water quantity and scarcity issues to avoid higher food prices, global instability, and a potential crisis of water refugees. The Connection Between Water Scarcity and Water Quality During his research, Seth discovered a crucial link between water scarcity and water quality. He found that people's lack of trust in their tap water led to a growing preference for bottled water or alternative beverages. Digging deeper, Seth realized that the treatment processes in place were not adequately addressing the presence of pharmaceutical residues and other harmful chemicals in the water supply. The Hidden Dangers in Tap Water The conversation shifts to the alarming reality of what lies within our tap water. Seth highlights the fact that pharmaceutical products, consumed by a significant portion of the population, eventually end up in our water systems. Moreover, the chemicals used in various industries find their way into our drinking water, as current treatment methods are insufficient to remove them entirely. The lack of awareness surrounding the quantities and long-term health risks of these contaminants is a cause for concern. The Regulatory Challenge Seth sheds light on the regulatory challenges associated with ensuring safe drinking water. With over 130,000 chemicals and pharmaceutical products currently in commerce, the EPA's regulation covers only about 100 chemicals. The slow pace of regulation and pushback from industries and politicians further compound the problem. The need for comprehensive and up-to-date regulations becomes apparent to protect public health effectively. The MAYU Solution As the conversation progresses, Seth Seigel introduces an elegant solution to the water quality problem—point-of-source purification. By decentralizing water purification systems, households can ensure that the water they consume is safe and free from contaminants. This approach eliminates the need for excessive bottled water consumption, reducing plastic waste and environmental pollution. The Benefits of Point-of-Source Purification Implementing point-of-source purification offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides a range of flavor profiles, making tap water more palatable and appealing to consumers. Additionally, this solution eliminates the need for purchasing bottled water or sugary alternatives, promoting healthier hydration practices. The reduction in plastic waste, lower transportation costs, and improved water quality contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. Sustainable and Healthy Path Ahead Seth Seigel's passion for water and his insights into the challenges and solutions for clean drinking water highlight the urgent need for action. By addressing water scarcity and water quality simultaneously, we can pave the way for a healthier and more sustainable future. Implementing point-of-source purification systems, such as the innovative approach taken by Mayu, can revolutionize how we consume water and ensure that everyone has access to safe, clean drinking water. It's time to raise awareness and work towards a world where troubled water becomes a thing of the past.

A woman drinking water from a glass and holding an asthma pump.

Water for health Hydration and Allergies: Can Drinking Water Alleviate Symptoms?According to the 2021 National Health Interview Survey in the United States, 24.7% of adults had a seasonal allergy, and 27.2% of children had one or more allergies. Allergies impact the body in various ways, from runny noses and watery eyes to coughing and sneezing. These symptoms vary based on what triggers them. For instance, nasal congestion can be a sign of histamine intolerance. Adequate cellular hydration is crucial for various physiological processes, like regulating body temperature and staying focused. And to help manage the effects of allergy symptoms, it's just as necessary. Here's what to know about the connection between drinking water and allergies. Understanding Allergies When you have a physiological reaction to substances in your environment that are generally harmless to most people—like pollen, pets, medications, or certain foods—it is called an allergy. With allergic reactions, the body's immune system responds to specific foreign proteins called allergens and produces antibodies to combat these perceived threats. When the body reencounters the allergen, these antibodies bind to specific cells, leading to the release of chemical substances, including histamines. Can Allergies Cause Dehydration? Dehydration is a commonly overlooked allergy symptom, particularly with seasonal allergies when there are temperature changes and dry air. Allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes can result in higher fluid loss from the body. This can cause fatigue, headaches, and other symptoms. Dehydration is not only a symptom of allergies but can also trigger allergic reactions. When the body experiences extreme dehydration, it can lead to an increased release of histamine, resulting in symptoms similar to those seen in seasonal allergies. Fact: Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, which can cause hives. How Can Water Alleviate Allergies? Allergies can manifest in several ways, one of which is thirst. When allergies cause nasal congestion and a stuffy nose, it can force you to breathe through your mouth. This may lead to symptoms like dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, and increased thirstiness. Now, you might be curious if drinking water helps manage allergic reactions. Let's see how: Drinking water helps reduce histamine release, as well as alleviates the accompanying allergy symptoms. Hydration helps you flush out allergens circulating in your body, removing foreign substances and minimizing the risk of allergic reactions. Water helps thin the mucus in your nasal passages, facilitating better sinus drainage and relieving congestion. To stay hydrated, prioritize caffeine-free alternatives to coffee and soda, such as water, because caffeinated beverages lack water's hydrating and allergy-reducing properties. Drinking Water and Allergies While water is beneficial for allergy management, note that tap water may contain chlorine. Chlorine is added during treatment to ensure water safety by removing harmful bacteria. But chlorine can act as an allergen for some and can irritate the lungs and skin. This can trigger allergic reactions, such as: Making breathing more difficult if you have asthmaDrying out skin and exacerbating existing dermatitis » Find out more about how water protects and boosts your immune system Structured Water: An All-Natural Solution Unlike regular tap water, structured water undergoes a unique process—aeration—that reorganizes its molecular structure, removing dissolved gases like chlorine. This process enhances the water's bioavailability, improves its hydration quality, and nourishes the body at a cellular level. If you're eager to stay on top of hydration with chemical-free water that helps you manage your allergies, consider Mayu Swirl—a carafe that aerates the water for easy absorption into the body.

A sick man sitting on a couch wrapped in a blanket with a glass of water.

Water for health 4 Best Drinks When You're Sick With a Cold or Flu When we have the flu, it's common to experience dehydrating symptoms such as fever, cough, and nasal congestion. The National Health Services (NHS) suggests drinking plenty of fluids during colds and flu since dehydration can worsen flu symptoms due to impaired immune function. However, nausea or stomach viruses may make you less inclined to hydrate. Luckily, there is a variety of hydrating drinks that not only are delicious but offer essential nutrients to aid in the recovery process. For instance, research shows that a 600ml solution containing electrolytes can rehydrate you faster than drinking water. Here's what hydration can help with and the best drinks for when you have a cold or flu. 4 Best Drinks That Help You When You’re Sick WaterLemonadeGinger aleElectrolyte drinks 1. Water Adequate water consumption helps thin mucus in the respiratory passages, which facilitates its elimination and contributes to a reduction in nasal congestion, cough, and improved breathing. To help you with hydration, you can drink cold water when you're sick if you prefer. Studies show that your reflex which acknowledges fluid intake kicks in more when drinking cold water. However, warm drinks can be more soothing to the throat and can also help reduce mucus. To enhance your cellular hydration on a deeper level, you can use the Mayu Swirl, which restructures and aerates water back to a pure state with no chemicals, making it healthier than tap and bottled waters. Fun fact: Structured water is similar to uncontaminated natural water found in glaciers. 2. Lemonade Natural juices are also great options to help with fluid intake, and among them is lemonade. You may wonder if lemonade is good for the flu, and the answer is yes. Lemonades are abundant in citric acid, vitamin C, and polyphenols, which can boost immunity and provide relief from fatigue and cold-like symptoms, such as headaches. Regular lemonade consumption can accelerate your recovery process. Additionally, drinking lemonade can reduce flu-related nausea because of the neutralizing citric acid it contains. » Learn how to stay hydrated when you're sick 3. Ginger Ale Ginger ale is good for a cold because ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can provide relief for sore throats and congestion. Additionally, the combination of ginger and carbonation—typical in ginger ales—can help alleviate an upset stomach and reduce feelings of nausea. To make ginger ale even more potent against the flu, you can add honey and lemon to help soothe a sore throat. It's best to opt for ginger ale with natural ingredients such as fresh ginger juice or real ginger extract, low sugar content, and no artificial sweeteners. This is because these sweeteners can aggravate symptoms like diarrhea. Tip: You can make your own ginger ale with fresh ginger, carbonated water, and natural sweeteners like honey. This way, you reduce sugar intake compared to store-bought options. 4. Electrolyte Water When battling the flu or a cold, your body can lose essential electrolytes through sweating, coughing, or fever. With electrolyte water like Gatorade, you can restore hydration levels faster than traditional water. Electrolyte water helps maintain optimal bodily functions, even during illnesses like flu or a stomach virus. However, Gatorade contains a high sugar content, so may not be suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions or health conditions, like heart disease. For a healthier option, consider Mayu Water's Electrolyte Drops. These drops ensure the swift absorption of high-quality minerals like magnesium, potassium, and zinc into the body. » Need more options? Check out these caffeine-free alternatives to energy drinks Accelerate Your Recovery With Healthy Beverages Dehydration can be dangerous as it can cause muscle cramps, fatigue, and even cognitive issues, like poor focus. This is usually worsened by illness since you usually don't feel like eating or drinking. By choosing beverages that keep your body hydrated, you can alleviate the discomfort caused by the flu and boost your immune system for a speedy recovery. From structured water with the Mayu Swirl to electrolyte-enhancing drops, you can balance your fluid levels to help you feel better during illness.

A woman in workout clothes drinking water with electrolyte drops.

Electrolytes Electrolyte Imbalance: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment Knowing how to keep electrolytes balanced can help ensure proper cellular functioning, since, for example, low electrolytes impact cognitive processing. This is especially common when you're dehydrated because electrolytes fluctuate as you lose or drink water. You naturally lose water through sweating, breathing, and toxin elimination. But with more moderate-to-high dehydration, your brain can be negatively impacted. For instance, research shows that being dehydrated by just 2% impairs focus, physiological capabilities, and short-term memory skills. Here's what you need to know about electrolyte imbalance and its effects on your body. Causes of Electrolyte Imbalance The types of electrolytes are sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, and bicarbonate, which are in charge of body functions such as pH levels, nerve and muscle relaxation and contraction, hydration, and tissue renewal. While these can fluctuate, they can also become imbalanced. Causes of electrolyte imbalance include: Excessive sweatingVomiting and diarrheaMedications like chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, laxatives, or diureticsLiver or kidney issuesSevere burnsEating disorders Regular levels of common electrolytes are:Sodium: 136 to 144 mmol/L (millimoles per liter)Potassium: 3.7 to 5.1 mmol/LCalcium: 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL (in adults)Chloride: 97 to 105 mmol/LMagnesium: 1.7 to 2.2 mg/dLPhosphate: 2.5 to 4.8 mg/dLBicarbonate: 22 to 30 mmol/L Symptoms of Electrolyte Imbalance Electrolyte levels in your blood shouldn't be too low as this can cause electrolyte imbalance. When your body is low on electrolytes, you can experience the following symptoms: HeadachesMuscle crampingIrregular heart rateNumbnessConfusionFatigueConvulsions It is important to know when or how to restore the electrolyte balance, such as using electrolyte drops that you can add to your water. However, there can be times when an electrolyte imbalance is so severe that a doctor should be contacted to replenish them via IV fluids. How to Prevent Electrolyte Imbalance There are numerous ways to hydrate effectively so you can avoid an electrolyte imbalance. Drink water while working outEat a balanced diet with electrolyte-rich foods like spinach, lentils, and nutsLimit your time outdoors in extremely hot weatherIf you're sick, stay hydratedLimit your carbonated or sugary beverage intakeCoconut water and electrolyte-infused water can help balance electrolytes » Check out 4 ways to add electrolytes to drinking water for max hydration Keep Your Electrolytes Up With Mayu Most electrolytes are absorbed by certain fruits in the daily diet. But there are multiple factors that can create an imbalance, such as certain medications. To ensure your electrolyte levels are optimal, consider replacing electrolytes like magnesium and other minerals with Mayu Water's Electrolyte Drops. These drops are a healthy alternative to sugary drinks, meaning no blood sugar spikes. To help you stay hydrated, the Mayu Swirl—which enhances water through aeration—makes a great pairing with electrolyte drops. You'll be able to enjoy water that is free of chemicals and healthier than tap or bottled water.

A woman sitting on steps with a bottle of electrolyte water.

Electrolytes Drink to Thrive: Understanding Electrolyte Water and Its Benefits Sports drinks are advertised to replenish fluids, glucose, and electrolytes lost during physical exertion. These drinks are generally considered healthy but can increase the risk of health issues, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, increased body mass index, and even gout. A better choice is electrolyte water. Electrolytes are minerals, such as sodium, calcium, potassium, chloride, phosphate, and magnesium. Also called mineral water or alkaline water, water with electrolytes has a neutral pH and is infused with electrically-charged minerals designed to improve cellular hydration and enhance other bodily functions. Here's all you need to know about electrolyte water. Who Can Drink Electrolyte Water? Electrolyte water is safe to drink every day, even for toddlers. It's particularly beneficial when dealing with dehydration that occurs in the following cases: If you exercise often If you live in hot climates When a child is recovering from being sick Benefits of Electrolyte Water Boosts Immune System Electrolytes play an important role in boosting the immune system. These minerals regulate the body's acid-base balance, protecting against infections and managing the intensity of your body's immune response. These electrolytes include: Potassium: Responsible for regulating immune responses. Deficiency can lead to gastrointestinal illnessSodium: Has anti-microbial effects that can help fight infectionsMagnesium: Required to make the T-cells that are used to fight and kill viruses. Decreased magnesium can lead to the decline of these and other essential immune cells Prevents Dehydration You may be wondering: Do electrolytes hydrate you faster than water? The short answer is yes. Drinking electrolyte beverages provides max rehydration quicker than drinking plain water. Electrolyte beverages also replenish lost minerals and maintain a stable fluid balance. During illness, water alone may not be enough to replenish the essential minerals lost due to vomiting or diarrhea. Because electrolytes are responsible for directing water and nutrients to where your body needs them most, electrolyte-enhanced water could be a better choice. Improves Nervous System Function Your nervous system is comprised of the nerve fibers and cells involved in sending signals from your brain to various parts of your body. It is the electrolytes (specifically sodium & chloride) that conduct the signals throughout your nervous system. Adequate amounts of sodium, magnesium, and potassium are required to regulate the fluid balance in your brain and support brain function. One way to ensure your diet contains enough of these brain-healthy minerals is by drinking water enhanced with electrolytes. Prevents Heatstroke If you live or work in a hot environment, sweating can lead to excessive water and electrolyte imbalances, which puts you at risk for a variety of heat-related illnesses, including heat rash and heatstroke. To prevent illness or strain caused by an electrolyte imbalance: Limit your time in the heatTake frequent breaksDrink electrolyte-enhanced water Enhances Exercise Performance Research shows that drinking electrolyte-enhanced water does a better job of preventing cramps and muscle soreness than plain water. Adding to this, Professor Ken Nosaka explains that drinking plain water can increase the likelihood of muscle cramps because it dilutes the body's remaining electrolytes. It only takes about 2% water loss to cause decreased focus, strength, and performance. Replacing fluids and electrolytes lost during working out can support—and even improve—heart and muscle function, which can enhance your overall performance. Tip: Drink electrolyte water about 1 hour before exercise for ideal hydration. Side Effects of Electrolyte Water While electrolyte supplements are generally considered healthy, too much can cause the following side effects: Fatigue: Often caused by too much calciumIrregular pulse: Arrhythmia is often associated with excessive potassium. Also called hyperkalemia, this condition can negatively impact kidney health Diarrhea: Can happen when your body's sodium levels are too highMuscle weakness: Usually caused by too much magnesium » Find out the healthiest types of water to drink Hydrate The Right Way With Electrolyte Water While regular water can meet hydration needs, electrolyte water can boost your cellular functioning, especially during exercise or exceptionally hot weather. But instead of reaching for sugary sports drinks, consider adding Mayu Water's Electrolyte Drops to your water. This healthy alternative is a great way to replace electrolytes like magnesium, potassium, and other minerals needed to keep you hydrated. When used with the Mayu Swirl carafe, you can enjoy aerated, electrolyte-enhanced water at home for faster, deep hydration.