Electrolytes 101: Why They Matter for POTS and Chronic Illness

If you live with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) or another form of dysautonomia, you probably already know hydration is important. But staying hydrated isn’t just about drinking water—it’s about maintaining a delicate balance of electrolytes. These tiny minerals play a massive role in how your body functions, especially when you have a chronic illness that affects your autonomic nervous system.

We’re breaking down what electrolytes actually do, why an electrolyte imbalance can be so dangerous, and how to get hydration right.

What Are Electrolytes and Why Do They Matter?

Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electrical charge. They include:

• Sodium

• Potassium

• Magnesium

• Calcium

• Chloride

• Phosphate

• Bicarbonate

These minerals regulate fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle function. They keep your heart beating properly and help your body absorb fluids efficiently.

For people with POTS, sodium is particularly important because it helps increase blood volume and reduce symptoms like dizziness and rapid heart rate.

Electrolyte Imbalance and Chronic Illness

Many people with chronic illnesses like POTS, ME/CFS, or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome struggle with electrolyte imbalances. Dehydration, heat intolerance, medications, and excessive sweating can all throw off your body’s natural balance.

Common symptoms of electrolyte imbalance:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Brain fog

• Muscle cramps

• Heart palpitations

If you recognize these symptoms, your body might not just be lacking water—it might be missing key electrolytes.

Learn more about electrolyte imbalance from Cleveland Clinic

Not All Electrolyte Drinks Are Created Equal

You might think sports drinks are the answer, but many of them don’t contain nearly enough sodium to help someone with POTS. Plus, they often include high levels of sugar, dyes, or artificial sweeteners that can make symptoms worse.

That’s why Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) are the gold standard for medical-grade hydration. The World Health Organization recommends a precise ratio of sodium, glucose, and potassium that helps your body absorb water directly into your bloodstream.

Read the WHO guidelines on ORS

Why NormaLyte Works Better

NormaLyte's oral rehydration salts was developed by pharmacists and designed specifically for people with chronic illnesses. It follows the WHO-recommended ORS formula and has been clinically proven to help manage symptoms of POTS.

• NormaLyte PURE contains no artificial sweeteners, dyes, flavors, or preservatives

• Flavored options have less than 1% sucralose

• Gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan

• Safe for daily use with precise dosing

Explore the full NormaLyte product line

Final Thoughts: Electrolytes Are Essential

When you're managing a condition like POTS, hydration isn’t optional—it’s critical. And getting it right means more than drinking water. Your body needs the right combination of electrolytes to feel better and function well.

NormaLyte Oral Rehydration Salts give your body the exact ratio it needs to absorb fluids efficiently, reduce dizziness, and increase blood volume—without all the junk.

External Resources:

• NIH: Electrolytes Overview

• Cleveland Clinic: Electrolyte Imbalance

• WHO Guidelines for ORS

Hydration matters. Electrolyte balance matters even more.