Electrolytes: Fad or Foundational For Women’s Wellness?

You may have noticed that electrolytes are having a bit of a moment. It’s rare that you will be able toi scroll through instagram these days without seeing a post or ad about them. SO what exactly are they and why are they so popular? Are electrolytes just another passing fad, or could they actually be a missing piece in your wellness puzzle?

Let’s unpack the science—and the wellness benefits—for women specifically.

What Are Electrolytes, and Why Do They Matter?

Electrolytes are essential minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium that help your body maintain balance. They regulate hydration, muscle function, nerve signaling, and even your pH levels.

For women, especially those navigating hormone shifts (periods, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause…), electrolytes can play a huge role in how we feel—physically and emotionally.

How Electrolytes Support Women’s Wellness

1. Hormonal Fluctuations and Fluid Balance

Do you experience bloating before your period? Or feel extra tired or crampy? Hormonal changes throughout your cycle can affect how your body retains water and electrolytes. Supporting your body with balanced hydration—including electrolytes—can reduce PMS symptoms, help with energy, and ease cramps.

2. Adrenal Health and Stress

When we’re stressed, our adrenal glands use up more electrolytes—particularly sodium and magnesium. If you’ve been feeling burnt out, anxious, or chronically fatigued, your electrolyte levels could be part of the picture.

3. Exercise, Sweat, and Strength

Whether you’re doing a gentle Pilates session or pushing through a spin class, electrolytes help replace what’s lost through sweat and support muscle recovery. They’re especially important if you’ve noticed fatigue or lightheadedness during workouts.

4. Pregnancy and Postpartum Support

Growing and nourishing a human takes a lot from your body. During pregnancy and after birth, especially if you are breastfeeding, your body’s fluid needs increase, and electrolyte imbalances are common. Electrolytes can help support energy, reduce swelling, and improve recovery.

Can Filtered Water Deplete Electrolytes?

While staying hydrated is essential, what you drink can matter too. Drinking large amounts of highly purified or distilled water—like reverse osmosis (RO) or demineralised filtered water—can, over time, dilute the natural electrolyte balance in your body. Because these types of water have had most of their minerals removed, they don't replenish what you lose through sweat, urine, or stress. In fact, studies have shown that consuming low-mineral water exclusively can lead to a gradual loss of sodium, potassium, and magnesium, especially when combined with increased fluid output during exercise or hot weather.¹ That doesn’t mean you need to ditch your water filter—but it might be worth adding a pinch of sea salt or a clean electrolyte powder to your bottle if filtered water is your go-to.

Are Electrolyte Powders Worth It?

Some are. Look for options that are low in sugar, free from artificial ingredients, and contain a blend of sodium, potassium, and magnesium at a minimum. Avoid drinks with neon colours, artifical sweeteners or caffeine.

If you're eating a whole-foods diet and staying hydrated, you might not need extra electrolytes every day. But for days when you're:

• On your period

• Sweating a lot

• Feeling anxious or tired

• Pregnant or postpartum

• Dealing with stress or adrenal fatigue

...adding electrolytes to your routine can be a simple, effective support. I have recently been using Love Life Supplements Raspberry Electrolytes Powder. They have kindly give me a 15% off code to share which is THENATUR15. You can buy them or find out more here.

The Verdict: Fad or Wonder?

When used intentionally, electrolytes are far from a wellness fad—they’re a foundational tool for energy, balance, and hormone support. Like any supplement, they’re not magic on their own, but they can be a game changer when paired with hydration, nourishment, and rest.

Ready to Feel More Balanced?

If you’re curious about how small changes—like adding electrolytes—could support your energy, hormones, and overall wellbeing, we can look at your lifestyle, symptoms, and goals, and explore natural ways to support your body from the inside out. I’d love to support you on your wellness journey. Click below to see ways I can work with you.

Reference:
¹ World Health Organization. (2004). Nutrients in Drinking Water. WHO Report