Are electrolyte drinks good for you? Heres what experts say

What’s the story?

Many fitness and wellness influencers claim that electrolytes are a daily necessity to keep you in shape physically and mentally. These electrically charged salts and minerals – including sodium, potassium and chloride – are found naturally in the body and help it function, moving nutrients, transmitting nerve signals and maintaining hydration levels.

What’s the science?

Phizz claims its dissolvable tablets support immune systems, increase energy levels and improve brain and muscle function with a mix of those aforementioned salts, alongside zinc and magnesium, supercharged with vitamins (including B6, B12, A and C). However, the main ingredient is glucose and there’s also sodium chloride, which those with high blood pressure may want to avoid.

What’s the truth?

While electrolytes are good for rehydrating after a stomach bug or a marathon, most people don’t need to take them. Dr Miranda Layton (AKA @dr_mimi_runs) says that unless you’re exercising for than 75 minutes, at high temperature or altitude, there’s not much point as ‘most people get enough salt in their diet… and overconsumption of electrolytes can cause dangerous changes to your heart rhythm and a rise in blood pressure – especially if you’re not actually dehydrated’.

What’s the verdict?

GP Dr Suzanne Wylie says that while the ingredients do have roles in the body, most of what Phizz claims to improve is already supported by a normal balanced diet and regular fluid intake. ‘These are unlikely to be harmful for healthy adults using as directed, but since the body is so effective at maintaining electrolyte balance, any excess consumed is just excreted.’ Money down the drain in our book.

Our rating

Rating: