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Electrolytes and hydration come up around exercise because sweat loses both water and minerals. This page explains what electrolytes are, what public health sources say about water and sports drinks, and how Forever Nature-Min describes itself, without making performance claims.
What electrolytes are
MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) describes electrolytes as minerals that carry an electric charge when dissolved in water or body fluids, including blood. They help balance the amount of water in the body, support muscle and nerve function, keep heart rate and rhythm steady and keep blood pressure stable. The main ones are bicarbonate, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, potassium and sodium, and you get them from the foods you eat and the fluids you drink.
Water first
The CDC says getting enough water every day is important for health, and that drinking water can prevent dehydration. It lists being more physically active and being in hot climates among the times your body needs more water. Daily water recommendations vary by age, sex, pregnancy status, activity level and breastfeeding status, and foods with high water content, such as many fruits and vegetables, also add to fluid intake.
When water is not the whole story
MedlinePlus lists heavy sweating and not drinking enough fluids during intense exercise or very hot weather among the common reasons for imbalances in the water in your body. It also lists certain medicines, severe vomiting or diarrhea, heart, liver or kidney problems, and drinking too much water. If you have any of these concerns, ask a health care provider instead of choosing a drink yourself.
Sports drinks and other options
| Option | What the CDC says |
|---|---|
| Plain water | No calories; counts toward your daily total |
| Sports drinks | Listed with sugary drinks: they contain calories but little nutritional value |
| Milk or unsweetened fortified alternatives | Contain important nutrients; enjoy within calorie needs |
| Energy drinks | May contain added sugar and large amounts of caffeine |
| Caffeine | Up to 400 mg a day is part of a healthy diet for most adults |
Before, during and after exercise
- Before — start with water and regular meals.
- During — carry water, and drink more in heat or when you are more active.
- After — water, plus a meal; foods provide the minerals above.
These are general habits, not a prescription. For recovery basics see omega-3 and exercise recovery.
Forever products that mention electrolytes
Forever Nature-Min is a multi-mineral tablet. According to Forever, it contains 10 essential and trace minerals from a natural sea mineral deposit, helps regulate fluid balance and is an excellent source of electrolytes. The directions are six tablets daily as a dietary supplement. The pack has 180 tablets, which is 30 days at six a day. It is vegetarian and vegan according to Forever. It is a mineral supplement, not a sports drink, and it does not replace water.
The Forever ARGI+ drink mix is a separate product aimed at active people, with its own label. Compare the guides before you choose, and ask a professional if you take medication or have a medical condition.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need electrolytes for every workout?
For most everyday exercise, water and regular meals are the basics the CDC describes. Longer, harder or hotter sessions raise the question, and a professional can help you with it.
Can I take too much?
Yes. MedlinePlus notes that an electrolyte level can be too high or too low, which is why medical history matters.
Who makes Nature-Min?
Forever Living Products. See What Is Forever Living Products? and the supplements guide.
Sources: MedlinePlus, Fluid and Electrolyte Balance; CDC, About Water and Healthier Drinks; Forever Living US product page.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
View the product: Forever Nature-Min
