• Electrolytes Defined:

1. • Electrolytes are minerals that conduct electrical charges in your body. They help maintain fluid balance, regulate blood pressure, aid in blood flow, build bone, and influence various hormones.
   • During pregnancy and nursing, your body undergoes significant changes, including increased fluid volume, blood, and hormonal activity. Electrolytes support these heightened demands.

• Sodium Needs:

1. • Adequate sodium intake is essential for both mother and fetus.
   • Restricting sodium below 3 grams per day during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth, birth weight, cardiovascular development, and kidney function.
   • Sodium deficiency may lead to high blood pressure in the baby later in life.

• Salt Restriction and Preeclampsia:

1. • Some believe that limiting salt intake prevents preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and swelling.
   • However, studies show no clear link between salt intake and preeclampsia risk.
   • Personal preference should guide salt consumption during pregnancy.

• Other Essential Electrolytes:

Besides sodium, consider these electrolytes:

• Magnesium: Supports muscle function, bone health, and energy production.
• Potassium: Helps maintain fluid balance and supports heart function.
• Calcium: Vital for bone development and muscle contraction.
• Phosphorus: Essential for energy metabolism and bone health.

• Symptoms of Electrolyte Imbalance:

1. • Headaches, muscle cramps, fatigue, and swelling of extremities can result from electrolyte imbalances.
   • Proper electrolyte intake helps alleviate these symptoms during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Check out my all natural, no sugar, delicious electrolyte drink recipe. Its safe and effective during pregnancy, nursing, and is perfect during labor. 

Hydra Aid/natural electrolyte drink

4 cups filtered water

½ cup lemon juice (from a whole lemon)

¼ tsp real salt or celtic sea salt

¼ of honey (raw is best) You may want to mix the honey in warm water before mixing it with the rest of the liquid. 

Optional: 

Add ½ tsp Trace mineral drops 

Add a sprig of fresh rosemary, thyme, or lavender flowers for the added botanical benefits. 

Mix it all up and keep it in a pitcher in the fridge. 

Remember, always consult with your healthcare provider to provide more in depth support for your unique circumstances. 😊🌟

For more care regarding peri and postnatal health, find a licensed professional such as a Montse Health to dive deeper into the root cause of your health concerns. 

Book your Fatigue Evaluation Call 

Book your appointment with Mana Integrative health to learn more about how functional medicine can help you achieve your health goals.

By Montserrat Corsino, L.Ac., MSOM
Instagram: Montsehealth

Montserrat is the owner and lead practitioner of Mana Integrative Health. She specializes in helping exhausted moms with hormonal, digestive, and mental/emotional imbalances.