Electrolyte drinks?

[PakawauN]

I have had Afib since 1990 after an ACL surgery where I had a horrific response to General Anesthesia and Opioid pain meds. I am a redhead and have many of the redhead syndrome responses to drugs. I am on atenolol and have had a failed Ablation. I hydrate well but wonder what electrolyte powder or drinks are recommended for people with Afib.

[Cavalierrubie]

There are many electrolyte powders, but be sure not to get ones that contain artificial sweeteners. Milk or coconut water replace electrolytes if you are able to tolerate them, or you can make your own with water, sugar (can be honey), salt and lemon juice (or any citrus pure fruit juice). Never take artificial sweeteners with AF., It’s a well known trigger, so l always check ingredients of food and drink.

[Ppiman]

None in general, since there's no need for them if you eat well. They might even add some stress to the kidneys at worst if you don't need them, I guess. These are far from natural, after all, unless they are in the normal diet.

That said, the two electrolytes that seem to be useful to athletes are sodium and "bicarbonate", with potassium and magnesium sometimes also included (i.e. the things lost when sweating a lot).

Steve

[ozziebob]

I see you are a new member and so may be unaware of the HU Search 🔍 tool available at the top of this page which will return past Posts and Replies on any relevant health topic.

Here's the return for "Electrolytes" ...

healthunlocked.com/search/p...

It's a subject that has been discussed many times on the Forum, so you should find something of interest.

[Rainlee]

I drink a few glasses of Gerolsteiner mineral water throughout the day. It has helped keep my electrolytes in balance.

[Madscientist16]

Electrolyte drinks tend to have citric acid and drinking them often can give you heart burn and acid reflux. This will cause an increase in heart ectopics. If these beverages increase your ectopics, either reduce consumption or dilute them with water. Most folks just need regular water to stay hydrated. Electrolyte drinks are for those who are very active or are recommended by your medical professional.

[Cavalierrubie in reply to Madscientist16]

That’s very true. They are also useful if you have loose bowel movements or stomach bug. They are not really necessary unless you are sick with loss of appetite, or blood test shows deficiency.

[Desanthony]

Once diagnosed with AF I asked my Consultant if it was Ok to take these as I have an over active bladder and also bowel problems which may necessitate my using them now and again. He said there was no problem with me taking them at all when needed as I always have - I probably take one sachet about 3 times a year. I wouldn't take them regularly without the OK from my consultant and would rather ensure that I keep hydrated naturally most of the time. I take a glass of water the minute I wake up and a glass before every meal. If I have a drink of strong coffee I always have water afterwards.