This summer it is almost impossible to escape advertisements for electrolyte powders and “super hydration” drinks promising to combat the heat and boost performance. However, experts at Hackensack Meridian Health warn that for the average person, these trendy products may be doing more harm than good.
While these products are designed for elite athletes who lose significant electrolytes during prolonged, strenuous exercise, they are not necessary for most people, according to Robert Hildrebrandt, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist at Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center.
“For someone who’s just walking their dog or working in an air-conditioned office, these high levels of sugar and sodium are simply unnecessary and can contribute to weight gain, blood pressure issues, and other health problems,” Hildrebrandt said.
He explained that a balanced diet typically provides all the electrolytes a person needs. Overconsuming these supplements can disrupt the body’s natural balance, leading to digestive issues and other health complications. Hildrebrandt emphasized that for most people, water remains the best and most effective way to stay hydrated during a heatwave.
The growing trend is driven by clever marketing that often misrepresents the products’ intended use. Hildrebrandt advises consumers to be cautious of the hype and to focus on safe and effective hydration strategies. The dangers of heatstroke are real, but electrolyte overload from unnecessary products is a growing concern among health professionals.
