Electrolytes have become a major wellness trend lately, with colorful powders and tablets showing up everywhere from gyms to grocery stores. But the real question is simple: what are electrolytes, and do you actually need to take them? Electrolytes are just minerals—things like sodium, potassium, and magnesium—that help your body stay hydrated, keep your muscles working properly, and support your nervous system. The easiest way to think about them is this: electrolytes replace the minerals you lose when you sweat. That’s really their main job. So now the big question: should you be taking them? For most people, the answer depends on how much they sweat. If you’re doing longer workouts, heated classes, outdoor training, or anything that leaves you noticeably sweaty, electrolytes can be really helpful. They can reduce fatigue, prevent that “post-workout headache,” and keep your energy steady. In these situations, your body is losing enough minerals that replacing them makes a difference. But if your workouts are short, low-intensity, or mostly indoors—and you’re not sweating much—plain water is usually all you need. Many people take electrolytes every day even though their body isn’t losing enough minerals to require supplementation. People often ask whether regular salt can work in place of an electrolyte packet, and the answer is technically yes. A pinch of salt in water, paired with balanced meals, can replace what you lose during light to moderate sweating. Electrolyte mixes simply provide a more convenient and balanced blend of sodium, potassium, and magnesium—especially helpful for hot yoga, long workouts, or intense sweat sessions. In short, electrolytes aren’t a daily necessity for everyone. They’re most useful when your body is losing a significant amount of fluid and minerals, and much less necessary when your workouts are mild or your diet already includes enough salt. Your best guide is your own sweat: the more you lose, the more electrolytes can support you.