When I was at the beginning of my long COVID journey, dizziness became my unwelcome companion. I often felt like I was about to faint, and one day, I was clearly on the verge of passing out. That’s when my mum—who should probably get a medal for best advice ever—suggested I try electrolytes. Back then, I picked up some Dioralyte, and honestly, it did help a little. That was my introduction to the world of electrolytes. From there, I started collecting all sorts of different electrolyte drinks, like a hydration treasure hunter, to find what worked best for me. After all, it wasn’t just about feeling a little less wobbly; it was about learning how to take care of my body in a whole new way.
Now, let’s talk about autonomic dysfunction, which, let’s face it, sounds like something you’d read in a science fiction novel. But here’s the simpler version: it’s when your body’s automatic functions—things like heart rate, temperature regulation, and blood flow—start acting like they’ve lost the plot. For example, if you have POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), standing up can feel like your body is having a mini rebellion, causing dizziness, heart palpitations, and even fainting. It’s like stepping off a rollercoaster—without the fun part.
This is where electrolytes come to the rescue. They help regulate fluid balance, muscle and nerve function, and can help prevent that dizzy, lightheaded feeling we all know too well. For those of us with POTS or similar conditions, keeping your electrolyte levels in check is key to staying upright (literally). So, here’s a simple recipe for a homemade electrolyte drink that was a game-changer for me.
Homemade Electrolyte Drink Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 tsp salt (for hydration—because your body needs more than just water)
- 1/4 tsp baking soda (helps balance pH, keeping things stable)
- 1/2 cup coconut water (for potassium and magnesium—basically nature’s sports drink)
- 1-2 tbsp lemon or lime juice (for a zing of flavour and Vitamin C)
- 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup (for glucose, because your body loves that energy boost)
- 2 cups water (filtered or distilled – keeping it clean)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bottle or large glass.
- Stir or shake well to dissolve the salt and baking soda.
- Adjust sweetness and flavour to your liking. More lemon? Go for it!
- Chill in the fridge if you fancy a cold drink.
Tips:
- Store it in the fridge and drink it within a day for maximum freshness.
- Adjust salt and sweetness depending on your taste buds and need
- Add some cucumber or mint for extra flair.
This drink is a simple way to stay hydrated without the sugary additives you find in most store-bought drinks. It’s especially helpful for those dealing with POTS or similar conditions. However, please remember that this is not medical advice. Always check with your doctor or healthcare provider before trying anything new to make sure it’s right for your individual needs.
Long Covid Journey 