Arjun Reddy Arjun Reddy Asked 8 months ago

Can drinking electrolytes cause weight gain?

I hit the gym regularly and often have electrolyte drinks after my workout to replenish energy. My trainer mentioned they're usually low in calories, but then a friend told me they can lead to weight gain because of hidden sugars or something. Is this true?

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10 answers

Sanjay Kapoor Sanjay Kapoor Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago
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If you are drinking sports drinks loaded with sugar, then yes, it can definitely cause weight gain because of the extra calories. But plain electrolyte powders without added sugar won't make you gain fat. Make sure to couple your hydration with daily walks or light workouts if your doctor permits.

Divya Nair Divya Nair Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago

I was actually reading up on this because I started having ORS after my workouts. Apparently, if they have too much sodium, your body might temporarily hold onto water, which looks like weight gain on the scale. But it is not actual fat gain, just water retention.

Aniket Shinde Aniket Shinde Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

Haan na, even I was thinking the same last week when my weight went up slightly. But actually, electrolytes just balance the water in our body, so it is probably just temporary water weight. No need to worry, it is not real fat, ho na.

Pooja Hegde Pooja Hegde Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago

I am new to working out and my trainer suggested I drink electrolytes during my gym sessions. I am very scared of gaining weight, so is there any specific brand that has zero calories? Or should I just stick to plain normal water instead?

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Vikas Deshmukh Vikas Deshmukh Joined Mar 2026 8 months ago

While normal electrolyte intake doesn't cause weight gain, sudden changes in water retention can point to blood pressure or kidney issues. It is always safest to get a routine renal profile and electrolyte test done. Consult your physician to understand if you actually need daily supplements.

Rohan Bhatia Rohan Bhatia Joined May 2026 5 months ago

I used to obsessively weigh myself every morning and panicked when the scale went up after drinking electrolyte water. I realized that the sodium just keeps you hydrated, so your muscles hold water. Don't stress too much about daily scale changes, it really messes with your head.

Kriti Chawla Kriti Chawla Joined May 2026 5 months ago

With PCOS, we easily retain water, so packaged electrolytes with high sodium or hidden sugars can sometimes cause a temporary spike on the scale. I prefer sticking to diluted coconut water or cucumber juice. It is safer to check the labels carefully and consult your gynecologist or dietitian.

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Saraswathi Venkat Saraswathi Venkat Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

My husband's doctor advised him to drink electrolytes during the hot summer months to avoid dehydration. My mother-in-law was worried it might cause fluid retention and weight gain, but the doctor assured us that proper hydration actually helps our organs function better. We should always follow professional medical advice.

Sunita Joshi Sunita Joshi Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

If you are feeling weak, coconut water is the best natural electrolyte and it won't cause weight gain if taken in moderation. But if you have sudden weight gain along with swollen feet or breathing issues, please don't ignore it. You should see a doctor immediately to check your kidney or heart health.

Ramesh Yadav Ramesh Yadav Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Bhai, simple ghar ka nimbu paani with a pinch of salt and little sugar is the best electrolyte. It gives energy and doesn't cause any heavy weight gain if you are working daily in the fields or walking. No need to buy those fancy, expensive powders from big shops.

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