Originally Posted by
nsherry61
Okay, I can't just let this alone. It would be great it the whole electrolyte/cramping issue were so simple. IT'S NOT.
Sodium, calcium, potassium, and magnesium are all electrolytes that play a roll in our bodies nerve transmission and cramping. Most of us get enough sodium in our diet without supplementing it, except when sweating heavily. Potassium is absolutely one of the electrolytes that can be in short enough supply that it contributes to cramping. But, it is absolutely NOT always the culprit. Most endurance athletes find a mixture of the aforementioned electrolytes is the most consistent and effective solution to cramping and the general malaise that comes from depleted electrolytes. Some people, generally people that sweat heavily, find they need supplemental electrolytes during almost any extended physical activity. Others people, myself included, can manage our electrolyte needs through a fairly normal diet except in the most extreme heat and extended endurance events. And, some people are extremely sensitive to the ratios of the different electrolytes while others get by with just a pinch of table salt. I know athletes that find one particular brand/mix works for them while others do not.
Tablets are NOT more than you need if you consume the right dose at the right rate. They certainly are more than you need and potentially more than is healthy for people that take tablets without the need or in excess. And, tablets are not "bad for your kidneys", excess salts over an extended period of time are bad for your kidneys, so don't take too much on a regular basis, but don't be afraid of taking enough.
Eating bananas for potassium sorta works sometimes for some people, and it was the standard mantra in the 70's and early 80's, but there are plenty of foods higher in potassium - google it. Potato chips or french fries anyone? If you have a doctor that is recommending eating bananas as a serious solution to real cramping, get another doctor!! Your doctor is about 30 years behind our current understanding of sports medicine.
As for most backpackers, probably a pinch of Morton's Lite salt (sodium and potassium chlorides mixed) in a each liter of water you drink is probably all you need and highly effective when you are sweating heavily. If you aren't cramping and/or sweating heavily, you probably don't need any electrolyte supplements. AND, some peoples' bodies benefit from the addition of calcium and magnesium to the mix. So something more than Morton's Lite salt can certainly be called for. Also, some of the flavored electrolyte supplements, like NUUN or Hammer Fizz add flavor to the water helping make drinking enough water more palatable for some.
Finally, if you are cramping because you are using your muscles harder than they are accustom to, electrolytes may not solve your problem. A fitness program for those muscles will.