Life’s a sport. Drink it up.
That’s what they say, right? Maybe for you that looks like this . . .
Or this . . .
Or even this . . .
(But seriously, if you can do the splits while lifting weights please don’t tell me. I just don’t have a grid for that.)
For Me, It’s About To Look Like THIS
Okay, maybe sport isn’t the most accurate term, but there is no physical test I have ever endured that comes close to giving birth. Dehydration has been a very real concern during both of my previous births (you can read about them here and here), which is why I’m keeping a batch of my homemade Labor Aid electrolyte drink close by for the arrival of baby #3.
These electrolyte drink formulas can help maintain good hydration better than water by replacing vital minerals and electrolytes. Plus, they’re stocked with easily absorbed simple carbs which help mamas maintain their energy. Oh, and they’re yummy, too!
Electrolyte Drink Ingredients
Coconut water is often referred to as “Nature’s Gatorade.” It contains 13 times more potassium – an electrolyte needed for proper cell function – than Gatorade, plus twice the amount of another electrolyte (sodium). (This brand doesn’t have any additives/preservatives)
Raw honey is rich in minerals and easily digestible sugars, which can be used for energy. Sugar “signals the body to down-regulate the production of stress hormones like cortisol. Cortisol levels spike during exercise and particularly during anaerobic (when you get breathless) exercise.” (source) Too much cortisol can disrupt the flow of labor, making this super ingredient useful on many levels.
Sea salt is full of electrolytes and minerals. Plus it “plays an important role of balancing the stress hormones during exercise. Salt reduces adrenaline levels and supports overall metabolic health.” (source)
Trace mineral drops add to the electrolyte content of the drink. Due to soil depletion many of us do not get enough trace minerals in our diet, so I supplement with this regularly.
Rescue Remedy is a bach flower essence that many mamas find help them feel more calm and centered during labor.
Lemon Labor Aide
- 4 cups filtered water
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon celtic sea salt or real salt
- 1/4 cup raw honey (or more to taste)
- a few drops of Concentrace minerals drops  (optional)
- a few drops of Rescue Remedy (optional)
Coconut & Lime Labor Aide
- 3 cups coconut water
- 1 cup water (or more, based on how strong you prefer the flavor to be)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (lemon is delicious too!)
- 1/4 teaspoon celtic sea salt or real salt
- 2 tablespoons raw honey or maple syrup (or more to taste)
- a few drops of Concentrace minerals drops (optional)
- a few drops of Rescue Remedy (optional)
Instructions
Mix all ingredients together and store in fridge until needed. Wishing you a beautiful, butter birth!
