Can You Overdose on Electrolyte Packets?

Most of the time, your electrolytes stay in balance just by what you eat or drink, but if you’re sweating profusely from exercising or working outside, or are sick with vomiting or diarrhea, you could lose too many electrolytes and get dehydrated. Enter sports and electrolyte-replacing drinks, joined by the popular electrolyte powders like Liquid I.V., and you have a seemingly great solution. But can there be too much of a good thing?

Electrolytes are essential minerals like sodium, potassium and magnesium that help maintain the body’s fluid levels and ensure that muscles, nerves and organs work properly. While an electrolyte drink may be helpful at keeping dehydration at bay, consuming too many electrolytes can lead to an imbalance, and in severe cases, could cause symptoms like weakness, headache, tremors, confusion, muscle cramping, rapid heartbeat and gastrointestinal issues.

Popular brand of electrolyte powder, Liquid I.V., recommends one packet with a certain amount of water, depending on the variety. While they say many people use a packet daily, they also advise consumers to consult with their doctors with questions about frequency.

As a general rule, if you’re not losing electrolytes from intense sweating or from a stomach bug, drinking more of them could be overkill. Water is best, as is starting exercise or activity already hydrated. When it comes to exercising, a good formula is to drink 8-16 oz. of water 45-60 minutes before starting and 5-9 oz. every 15-20 min. while exercising. After prolonged physical activity (over 30 minutes) an electrolyte drink or powder mixed with water can be helpful, just be sure to check the sugar content.