Cold-Weather Hydration: Why You Still Need Electrolytes When It’s Chilly

Electrolytes, particularly sodium, play a pivotal role in hydration. They help regulate fluid balance within the body by controlling the movement of fluids in and out of cells, as well as maintaining muscle function and overall hydration. This is crucial during exercise as the body loses water and electrolytes through sweat. In these colder winter months it is important not to neglect the importance of electrolytes; these help prevent cramping, fatigue, and dehydration, allowing you to maintain peak performance.

At Active Root we incorporate natural sea salt into our products. As this natural source is unrefined, it provides runners with a reliable source of sodium that replenishes electrolyte levels without artificial additives or unwanted side effects. This ensures that athletes can focus on achieving their goals without compromising on their health or wellbeing.

Our staple ingredient of ginger has also been shown to aid in efficient water absorption. Ginger stimulates the digestive system, helping to enhance the absorption of fluids and electrolytes. This means your body can more effectively utilise the hydration you are providing, keeping you well-hydrated throughout your activity. Active Root’s ginger root provides powerful anti-nausea support, reducing bloating and digestive discomfort, even during high-effort sessions.

Why Electrolytes Matter Even In Cold Weather

Electrolytes are essential for maintaining hydration and overall health, especially in cold weather. It may be easy to neglect the importance of electrolytes when running on colder days, however the need to maintain fluid balance, muscle function and hydration continues regardless of the weather. There’s also the risk of a dip in immune function during winter, and electrolytes play a part in the body’s overall balance.

When exercising outdoors in winter we are more likely to wear multiple layers of clothing, resulting in an increase in sweat under layers due to the body’s natural response to heart and exercise. Prevent overheating by considering wicking materials to move sweat away from the skin, adjusting layers according to effort, avoiding moisture-absorbing cotton, and managing electrolyte levels.

Exercising indoors also brings its own risks of dehydration. By calculating and considering your own sweat rates and adjusting your hydration strategy accordingly, athletes can improve their performance, prevent dehydration and the risk of injury.

Cold-induced diuresis can become an issue in winter as a response to the body’s effort to maintain its core temperature and protect its organs from hypothermia. When exposed to cold, blood vessels in the skin constrict which reduces blood flow and directs more blood to the core. As a result, blood pressure increases, prompting the kidneys to filter excess fluid, leading to increased urination.

Meanwhile, older athletes may have to contend with blunted thirst - a higher risk of dehydration due to a diminished thirst response and changes in kidney function.

Replenishing electrolytes and staying hydrated is essential for maintaining overall wellness during the winter months.

How Active Root Can Help

By maintaining electrolyte levels, athletes can avoid dehydration and continue to perform at high levels for extended periods. Electrolytes play a critical role in muscle contraction and relaxation. The balanced blend of electrolytes in Active Root's drink mixes help reduce the likelihood of experiencing muscle cramps during exercise. With the correct electrolyte balance, the body improves its ability to absorb and retain fluids. This not only prevents dehydration but also ensures that athletes can maintain a higher level of performance during training and endurance events. Proper hydration maintains stamina and delays the onset of fatigue.

Our Electrolite Drink Mix contains up to 325mg of sodium and 801mg of unrefined sea salt for proper hydration, 203mg of stomach-settling ginger per serving, just 33 calories and 8g of carbs for light, effective fuelling, and is available in three refreshing flavours: Original, Mixed Berry, and Lemon.

The unrefined sea salt replenishes sodium and other key electrolytes to prevent dehydration and muscle cramps. Meanwhile, the ginger root provides powerful anti-nausea support, reducing bloating and digestive discomfort. This dual-action formula makes Electrolite a smarter choice for anyone looking to hydrate more naturally, without relying on sugary or artificial sports drinks.

Earlier this year, The Telegraph featured our Electrolite Drink Mix, naming it "Best Electrolytes for Sensitive Insides." In the words of journalist Eleanor Ross, “It was pleasant to sip on... I didn’t get any cramps and the headache that had been threatening actually alleviated.”  Eleanor summed it up well: "Great for endurance athletes prone to nausea as the ginger helps."

It is crucial not to neglect the important role of electrolytes during exercise, especially during the colder winter months. With the support of Active Root you can maintain your performance despite the temperatures outside.