Electrolytes

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are electrolytes?
  Electrolytes are essential minerals, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, that help regulate fluid balance, muscle contraction, and nerve function in the body.
• Who should take an electrolyte supplement?
  Electrolyte supplements are most beneficial for people who lose significant minerals through sweat, including athletes, highly active individuals, and those training or working in hot conditions. They can also support hydration for people following low-carbohydrate diets or with high fluid intake, where electrolyte loss may occur more easily. When used appropriately, a high-quality electrolyte supplement provides a precise, reliable way to replace lost electrolytes and support hydration, performance, and fluid balance.
• When is the best time to take electrolytes?
  Electrolytes are most beneficial before, during, or after exercise, in hot or humid conditions, during long periods of sweating, or when hydration needs are higher than normal.
• How do electrolytes help with hydration?
  Electrolytes help your body absorb and retain water more effectively by regulating fluid movement between cells and the bloodstream. Sodium and potassium play a key role in this process by driving water absorption in the gut and helping move fluid into cells where it’s needed. During hard training, hot conditions, or heavy sweating, water alone may not be enough to fully restore hydration without electrolytes and, in some cases, can dilute mineral levels in the body.
• Does Sportsfuel sell sugar-free electrolyte supplements?
  Yes. We offer many sugar-free electrolyte options from top brands, designed for effective hydration without added sugars—ideal for low-carb, keto, or everyday use.
• Why do electrolyte supplements contain sugar?
  Some electrolyte products include sugar because carbohydrates (such as glucose) can help transport sodium and water across the gut, particularly during prolonged or high-intensity exercise.
  
  Sugar also affects osmolality, which determines whether a drink is hypotonic, isotonic, or hypertonic:
  
  - Hypotonic drinks contain very little carbohydrate (typically under ~4% carbs). They are less concentrated than body fluids and are absorbed quickly, making them ideal for rapid hydration.
  
  - Isotonic drinks usually contain around 6–8% carbohydrate, giving them a similar concentration to body fluids. These support both hydration and energy during longer training sessions or endurance exercise.
  
  - Hypertonic drinks contain higher carbohydrate levels (above ~8%). These are more concentrated than body fluids and are absorbed more slowly, making them better suited for energy replacement rather than hydration.
  
  Because concentration matters, it’s important to mix electrolyte powders with the correct amount of water as stated on the packaging. Using too little water can turn a hypotonic or isotonic formula into a hypertonic drink, which may slow fluid uptake and increase the risk of stomach discomfort. Mixing as directed helps ensure optimal hydration and performance. Sugar-free electrolytes are more forgiving but should still be mixed as directed for optimal effectiveness.
• How is carbohydrate percentage calculated in an electrolyte drink?
  Carbohydrate percentage is calculated as grams of carbohydrate per 100 ml of fluid (grams ÷ total drink volume in ml × 100). This is why mixing electrolyte powders with the correct amount of water is important—too little water increases the carb percentage and can slow fluid absorption, slowing down hydration.
• Are electrolyte supplements vegan and allergen-friendly?
  Many electrolyte supplements are vegan, gluten-free, and free from common allergens. Always check individual product pages for full ingredient and allergen information.
• Why do some electrolyte supplements taste salty?
  A salty taste usually comes from sodium, one of the most important electrolytes lost through sweat. Sodium plays a key role in fluid absorption, hydration, and maintaining fluid balance, so effective electrolyte supplements often contain meaningful amounts. Products that taste slightly salty typically reflect a formulation designed for performance and hydration rather than flavour alone.