Electrolytes in general are a key part to a successful keto diet. But sodium is one of the most underrated electrolytes and often the most under-consumed electrolyte we take in.
The question is why?
You’ve been coaxed into believing that consuming too much sodium will cause health problems. Things like elevated blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, stomach cancer and kidney disease. What you may not know is that you are typically only at a higher risk for these conditions when you are consuming copious amounts of carbohydrates.
You see, when you consume large amounts of carbohydrates, you tend to hold water within the body. This is known as glycogen. When you cut your consumption of carbs, you lose that water and with that water loss, you also lose the ability to store essential electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium and sodium. If you do not increase your sodium intake on a ketogenic diet, you can experience electrolyte imbalance which could cause water retention, weight gain, headaches, heart palpitations and more.
The recommended daily intake varies depending on your body and any health conditions you may have, but it's best to supplement with an electrolyte powder every day. Be sure to also pick up a good quality sea salt of pink Himalayan salt and don’t hesitate to add it to all of your meals!
Do you supplement with electrolytes and ensure you get enough sodium each day?
The question is why?
You’ve been coaxed into believing that consuming too much sodium will cause health problems. Things like elevated blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, stomach cancer and kidney disease. What you may not know is that you are typically only at a higher risk for these conditions when you are consuming copious amounts of carbohydrates.
You see, when you consume large amounts of carbohydrates, you tend to hold water within the body. This is known as glycogen. When you cut your consumption of carbs, you lose that water and with that water loss, you also lose the ability to store essential electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium and sodium. If you do not increase your sodium intake on a ketogenic diet, you can experience electrolyte imbalance which could cause water retention, weight gain, headaches, heart palpitations and more.
The recommended daily intake varies depending on your body and any health conditions you may have, but it's best to supplement with an electrolyte powder every day. Be sure to also pick up a good quality sea salt of pink Himalayan salt and don’t hesitate to add it to all of your meals!
Do you supplement with electrolytes and ensure you get enough sodium each day?
