🍋 Ingredients:
- 4 cups drinking water
- 1–2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (raw, with the “mother”)
Benefits: small amounts of potassium, alkalizing, gut supporting, antibacterial - 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger (or 1/2 tsp powdered)
Benefits: anti inflammatory - 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (or raw honey if not strictly plant-based)
Benefits: potassium, calcium, a bit of magnesium - Juice of 1/2 lemon
Benefits: a bit of potassium and magnesium, antimicrobial - Pinch of sea salt
Benefits: sodium and chloride
- In a jar or pitcher, combine all ingredients.
- Stir or shake well to dissolve the syrup and salt.
- Let sit for at least 15–30 minutes to allow the ginger to infuse.
- Strain if desired, serve chilled or over ice.
Add a splash of sparkling water before serving!
Add 1 tbsp chia seeds and let them sit in the switchel for 10–15 minutes. They’re a good source of magnesium, calcium, and omega-3s.
Electrolytes in the Human Body:
Sodium (Na+): Plays a key role in regulating fluid balance, nerve impulses, and muscle contractions.
Potassium (K+): Essential for nerve function, muscle contractions (including the heart), and maintaining a healthy heart rhythm.
Chloride (Cl-): Works with sodium to maintain fluid balance and regulate the body’s pH level.
Calcium (Ca2+): Important for bone health, muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting.
Magnesium (Mg2+): Involved in muscle and nerve function, energy production, and bone health.
Phosphate (HPO42-): Essential for energy production, bone health, and DNA synthesis.
Bicarbonate (HCO3-): Helps regulate the body’s pH balance.