Why electrolytes help in POTS, beyond “drink more water.”
For many people with POTS, plain water isn’t enough. Electrolytes — especially sodium — help your body hold onto fluid and support blood volume.
Sodium, potassium, and magnesium in simple terms.
Electrolytes are minerals that carry electrical charge in your body. They help nerves fire, muscles contract, and fluid move in and out of cells.
Sodium: the main lever
- Helps pull water into the bloodstream.
- Supports blood pressure and circulation on standing.
- Often increased intentionally in POTS treatment plans.
Potassium & magnesium
These minerals matter too, but the focus in POTS protocols is usually sodium plus fluid.
- Potassium keeps nerves and heart rhythm stable.
- Magnesium can help with muscle tension and headaches for some.
Your clinician may check blood levels and adjust supplements or medications accordingly.
Use electrolytes with a plan, not randomly.
Rather than grabbing whatever sports drink is on sale, work with your clinician to choose electrolyte products and routines that match your sodium targets and symptom patterns.