Have you ever experienced muscle fatigue, side stitches, dizziness or cramping in your legs or stomach? Runners may know these symptoms all too well. These are sure-fire signs of electrolyte imbalance, and they’re very common in runners and endurance athletes. When you sweat a lot, you lose a lot. That’s why it’s so important to replenish the body’s four major electrolytes: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Maintaining your body’s fluid balance will ensure you reach optimal performance during training and on race day. Here are three delicious, post-workout smoothies that will help you do just that!
Instead of filling up on electrolyte drinks that are high in simple sugars and loaded with artificial ingredients, make your own runner’s smoothie. These are packed with essential minerals and vitamins to replenish those electrolytes in a healthier, whole-food way.
Berry-Beet Booster
1/4 cup coconut water
1/4 cup almond milk
1/4 avocado peeled and chopped
1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 Tbsp. beet powder
1 Tbsp. chia seeds
1-2 tsp. agave or honey
1/2 lemon or lime, squeezed
Crushed ice
Directions: Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth, about 30 seconds. Top with a sprinkle of sea salt.
Superfood Revitalizer
1/2 cup Super Kale plus Beet Juice Blend
1 banana sliced
1 pear
1/2 cup watermelon
1 cup spinach
1 Tbsp. hemp seeds
1 Manuka honey stick
Pinch of sea salt
Crushed ice
Directions: Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth, about 30 seconds.
Green Coconut Refresher
1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
1 kiwi
1 cup kale
1/4 avocado, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup pineapple
2 Tbsp. hemp seeds
1 tsp. spirulina powder
Crushed ice
Directions: Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth, about 30 seconds.