In modern times, staying hydrated can feel like a big ask. Maybe you don’t have time to fill up your reusable water bottle as you dash from meeting to meeting, or you forget to take a few gulps after a sweaty workout. Hydration supplements, like electrolyte powders and tablets, have entered the market to fill in when you fall short of your daily water requirement or when you're feeling depleted—but are they really necessary?
Before you start spending your money on yet another supplement, it’s important to understand how hydration works. “Water, which constitutes approximately 60% of our body weight, is involved in numerous vital functions,” says dietitian Lauren Manaker, RDN. “It aids in regulating body temperature, lubricates joints, assists in nutrient absorption, and facilitates various chemical reactions within the body.” Maintaining proper hydration levels can also help us think, regulate our emotions, and react to the world around us.
