Is Hydration a Problem for You? So It Was for Us!
In November 2012, I shared our challenges with getting Tommy to drink plain water. At 4 years old, he refused water, and we unknowingly prolonged the problem by introducing juice at 18 months old. Over time, we worked on limiting juice intake, offering water in fun water bottles like Pura or Bobble, and used them for a long time, and using motivational strategies to help him develop a habit of drinking water. Through patience, creativity, and consistency, we saw some progress—Tommy even started asking for "A LOT OF WATER" on his own.
Fast-forward to today and Tommy still doesn’t love drinking plain water, so we’ve adapted our approach. But to my surprise, it seems to be a common issue not only in the community of people with disabilities but also in the general population. 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated 💧, and dehydration affects up to 28% of older adults due to lower thirst levels and medications that cause fluid loss. (Source: National Council on Aging)
And then, my husband discovered LMNT electrolytes and suggested trying them with Tommy.
Why LMNT Electrolytes Are a Game-Changer
Zero sugar
No artificial ingredients
Essential minerals: sodium, potassium, magnesium
Ideal for unique dietary needs and sensory sensitivities
💧 Hydration Tip: Given its high salt content, we divide one LMNT packet into three portions to lightly flavor his water, ensuring it’s both hydrating and palatable. Occasionally, we add fruits or a small amount of pure pomegranate juice to decrease the salt intake.
Is LMNT Third-Party Tested?
Ensuring the safety and quality of supplements is vital. Third-party testing verifies purity,
potency, and the absence of contaminants like heavy metals, harmful substances, and fillers. According to LMNT’s official sources, their product undergoes rigorous quality control testing to meet safety standards. For transparency, LMNT provides access to detailed lab test results so consumers can make informed decisions.
✅ Check the latest LMNT lab test results 👉 here!
Why Third-Party Testing Matters
For children like Tommy, who already have underlying health considerations, third-party testing provides an extra layer of assurance. It confirms that what we are giving him is safe, clean, and effective, without hidden ingredients that could cause harm.
How Much Water Should Tommy Drink?
We use a simple formula to calculate daily water intake based on weight is:💧 Body weight (lbs) ÷ 2 = Ounces of water per day. We got this formula from Tommy’s first nutritionist who helped us to understand food sensitivity.
For example: a person weighing 160 lbs should aim for 80 oz of water daily. This can vary based on activity level, climate, and health conditions.
How Did LMNT Electrolytes Specifically Help Tommy’s Hydration Habits?
LMNT electrolytes helped Tommy’s hydration habits by making water more appealing to him. Here’s how:
Improved Taste Without Sugar: Tommy didn’t enjoy plain water, which made it difficult to meet his hydration needs. LMNT’s light, salty flavor (when diluted) added just enough taste to make the water palatable for him without introducing sugar or artificial additives.
Sensory-Friendly Solution: Many children with special needs, including Tommy, have heightened sensory sensitivities. The subtle flavoring from LMNT provided a sensory experience that was acceptable to him, encouraging him to drink water voluntarily.
Balanced Hydration: LMNT contains essential electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium—that are vital for hydration and overall body function. These minerals support energy levels, muscle function, and brain health, which are particularly important for children with unique dietary or health considerations.
Were There Any Long-Term Benefits Tommy Experienced from Using LMNT Electrolytes?
Yes, Tommy experienced several long-term benefits:
Improved Hydration Habits: Before introducing LMNT, Tommy struggled to drink plain water. Over time, incorporating LMNT into his routine helped him develop a habit of drinking more water regularly, promoting consistent hydration.
Better Energy Levels: Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium are crucial for maintaining energy levels and muscle function. Tommy has experienced improved stamina and reduced fatigue.
Enhanced Cognitive Function: Proper hydration supports brain function. Staying hydrated with LMNT may have supported Tommy’s focus, mood regulation, and cognitive performance.
Support for Muscle Function and Coordination: Electrolytes help with muscle contraction and coordination, which can support Tommy’s progress in overcoming challenges related to dyspraxia.
Reduced Risk of Dehydration-Related Issues: By addressing his aversion to plain water, LMNT helped reduce the risk of dehydration-related issues like headaches, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating. Because of his limited verbal communication skills, I prefer to make sure I am supporting his body to avoid this issue.
Improved Overall Health: Proper hydration supports digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, and nutrient absorption, which are essential for Tommy’s overall health.
Fruits & Vegetables That Boost Hydration
In addition to LMNT electrolytes, we incorporate water-rich foods into Tommy’s diet to support hydration naturally:
🥒 Cucumber – 97% water; add herbs and citrus juice for extra hydration
🍉 Watermelon – Packed with electrolytes like calcium, magnesium, and sodium
🍓 Strawberries – 91% water, plus fiber, vitamins, and minerals
🥬 Lettuce – 96% water, also rich in fiber and folate
🍅 Tomatoes – 95% water, with antioxidants that may support heart health
🌿 Celery – 95% water; great on its own or with a nutrient-rich dip
🥒 Zucchini – 95% water; enjoy it raw or cooked
🍈 Cantaloupe – Hydrating and packed with potassium
By combining hydrating foods, LMNT electrolytes, and creative motivation strategies, we’ve helped Tommy build better hydration habits.
Conclusion: Your Path to Hydration Success
Overcoming hydration challenges is possible. With patience, creativity, and the right tools like LMNT electrolytes, you can ensure your child stays properly hydrated. Every small step towards better hydration is a victory worth celebrating. Because Tommy has a mind of his own, I know he could suddenly change his preference, so I have other resources in mind that other parents have shared with me. If things change, I will share it with you.
💧 Want to try LMNT? We’ve seen great results using LMNT electrolytes for hydration. If you're curious, you can check it out 👉 here!
