by SALTT Staff

Signs You Need More Electrolytes—and How Many to Take

Symptoms of Low Electrolytes

SALTT capsules

This is one of those things you wish we had been taught in school. So many of us walk around suffering the effects of an electrolyte imbalance, but never connect the dots. We may have learned in school that electrolytes help conduct electricity and our body communicates with itself via that electricity, but do you know what the symptoms are of low electrolytes? Here are just a few of the most common ones:
  • Persistent Fatigue: Chronic tiredness not alleviated by sleep can often be a sign of electrolyte deficiency.
  • Frequent Headaches: Lack of electrolytes can lead to headaches as the brain temporarily contracts from fluid loss.
  • Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Insufficient electrolytes can lead to a drop in blood pressure, causing dizziness.
  • Dry or Flushed Skin: Lack of electrolytes and the hydration they help with often manifests in the skin, the largest organ in the body.
  • Muscle Cramps: During exercise or heat exposure, inadequate electrolytes can lead to painful cramping.
  • Dark Urine: Darker than normal urine can be one of the first indicators of dehydration.
  • Constipation: Water and electrolytes are crucial for digestion, and lack of it can lead to constipation.
  • Brain Fog: Cognitive function requires adequate electrolytes, and lack of focus or confusion can signal dehydration.
  • Depression: Electrolytes play a vital role in mood regulation, brain relaxation, and the ability for your brain to function correctly.

How Much? And When?

men surfing

The effect they have on our daily life is immense—but how many of them do you need? And is there a specific time it’s best to take them? 

When it comes to SALTT, we recommend starting with 1-2 packets (because that’s when most people tend to feel their best), but everyone is different. You can take them any time of day, because although they help both with energy and with sleep, they won’t keep you awake like caffeine, or knock you out like a sleep aid.

How do you know if you need more than those 1-2 servings? The best way to tell is to listen to your body. In addition to the above symptoms that show you are already deficient. Here are a few signs you are about to need more electrolytes:

  • You’re starting to feel sluggish and think a midday boost could be helpful.

  • You’re planning on an intense workout or just used a muscle group intensely.

  • You plan to be (or were) more active than usual.

  • You’ve been or will be outside a lot in hot weather.

  • You’ve been having a bit more trouble than usual in regulating your mood, or are feeling a little lower than you have been lately.

  • You plan on participating in an activity for a decent length of time and need more endurance.

by SALTT Staff