We have lost our minds as a society regarding hydration and electrolyte replacement, and Brian Sutterer MD, my favorite YouTube MD, just broke down the current hydration issues and hit most of my pet peeves.

No, you don’t need to drink “electrolytes” throughout the day to stay hydrated, unless you are engaged in high intensity, dramatic sweat loss activities. Your body really does a great job with homeostasis and regulating your electrolyte levels if you are healthy and eat a regular American diet.

When you crush your soul in the gym and lose gallons of sweat, then sodium is the most important electrolyte to replace. Make sure whatever hydration solution you drink contains a significant amount of sodium.

Sugar is actually good for sodium replacement and hydration due to sodium-glucose co-transporters in the gut. You actually hinder the efficacy of your hydration by using drinks with zero sugar.

Enjoy the breakdown from Brian Sutterer MD in the YouTube video below.