Electrolytes are essential for everyday human function, but are there better ways to consume them than through sugary, processed sports drinks?

Electrolytes are basically responsible for regulating the body’s nerve and muscle function, hydration, blood pH, blood pressure, and rebuilding damaged tissue. Our heart, muscle, and nerve cells also rely on these ions, according to Medical News Today, and electrolyte levels are regulated by kidneys and several hormones. At least one sports-drink manufacturer is making an effort to put a more natural product on the market; on Friday, PepsiCo Inc.-owned Gatorade announced G Organic, which cuts out all of the artificial food dyes found in nearly every one of its other drinks.

Brett O’Brien, Gatorade’s senior vice president and general manager, said the company was responding to a consumer demand. “We heard pretty loud through the locker rooms, through our work with nutritionists, that there is an interest and a desire among athletes to go organic,” he told Bloomberg News.

If electrolytes are an organic substance that our body needs, is there a more natural way to get it? Turns out fresh fruits and vegetables are also great sources to replace lost electrolytes. Coconut water after a run will give you the same benefit of replenishing ions as original Gatorade, but there’s no doubt that it’s a much healthier choice. Tasty, natural drinks like fruit juice and green smoothies are also natural replacements for unhealthy sports drinks.

Gatorade and Pedialyte are touted for being packed with essential electrolytes (and both have great hangover recovery benefits). Unfortunately, the former also has a lot of sodium and glucose. Pedialyte has less sugar and is actually recommended for sick children when they’re dehydrated — but the ingredients are far from natural.

Feeling inspired to make your own electrolyte-packed drink at home? Women’s Running shared an easy recipe that includes coconut water, chia seeds, and lime or lemon juice. Yum!

Read more:

Electrolyte Imbalance Can Cause Serious Health Concerns; Who Is At Risk Of Excessive Sweating?

What Causes A Hangover? Everything You Need To Know The Morning After Drinking Alcohol