Parched, anyone?
As you transition to ketosis you are going to feel thirsty. This is because your body processes minerals differently once you are in ketosis. As your body is detoxing, you rapidly eliminate sodium, which also lowers your potassium and magnesium levels.
This means that you absolutely must replenish your electrolytes: sodium, magnesium and potassium.
Cramps, headaches, dizziness and dehydration are commonly experienced when your body’s electrolytes are depleted.
When you are in ketosis, you will notice that you need to go to the toilet more often–even at regular intervals throughout the night.
This diuretic effect is due in part to your glycogen stores being emptied as your body eliminates the “water weight” and fluid retention. This water weight is linked to carbohydrate intake: One gram of glycogen necessitates around 3 to 4 grams of water in storage. This mass exodus of surplus fluids can cause dry mouth and increased thirst.
So, what's the solution?
We highly recommend this hydrating electrolyte concoction:
- 1/3 teaspoon of celtic sea salt or himalayan salt
- 1 teaspoon of powdered magnesium or an ampoule of quinton minerals and electrolytes
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Large glass of water
- 1/4 teaspoon xylitol, stevia or erythritol for those with a sweet tooth!
Why Magnesium?
Magnesium is critical for energy production, metabolism, muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission and bone mineralisation. It contributes to muscle recovery and overall relaxation. This makes this the perfect post-workout keto friendly drink! Add collagen to increase your muscular & cellular repair.
You can easily transform this recipe into a phenomenal pre-workout drink by adding one scoop of exogenous ketones and a serving of emulsified MCT Oil for that extra ketone energy boost! Exogenous Ketones also contain sodium, potassium and magnesium, which help you to keep hydrated and avoid keto flu.
Discover more electrolyte and ketone boosting recipes here.
And don’t forget to download your Free 7 Day Ketogenic Meal Plan.
If you have any questions, let us know in the comments below!
Sara & Francisco
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Hi, I have a question. I´m on a ketogenic diet since 3 month now, but from the beginning I have severe problems with water retention. Everywhere I can read that people lose a lot of water, but I didn´t lose anything, neither water nor body weight. My urine strips show me that I´m in ketosis. I drink a lot of water and I´m always thirsty, but I don´t have to go to the toilet often. I startet with 20-25 gr. carbs a day . Since 2 weeks I increased the amount to 30-40 gr. carbs because I read, the hormones might play havoc. Any idea what could be wrong here?
Hi Yvonne! Thanks for your message! You may have an electrolyte or iron deficiency that is causing water retention. I recommend that you increase the amount of mineral salt you consume, increase magnesium and even add in potassium too (from avocados, cacao and dried herbs). You can also try increasing your iron intake too by eating organ meats or dessicated liver tablets. Are you under a lot of stress and sleeping enough? It may be cortisol levels playing havoc with your hormones, so perhaps try some deep breathing or gentle yoga (especially yin yoga) style exercises. Do let me know if any of these recommendations help and if you have any further questions. Hope you start feeling better soon! Sara
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