Apart from mere water consumption, many have changed their hydration routines with electrolytes, ORS and hydration supplements
With evolving consumer needs and rising temperatures, India’s relationship with rehydration is changing. From carrying electrolyte powder sachets to tracking daily hydration, Indians have started to pay closer attention to how, when and what they drink in order to stay hydrated throughout the day. As India experiences hotter and longer summers this year, heatwaves have become increasingly common across the country. Alongside, conversations around hydration have gained significant prominence. Beyond daily water intake, new hydration rituals have emerged.
More Than Water
Body fluid requirements are no longer just about quenching thirst. They have rather become a major concern amidst the rising temperature and changing lifestyle. Climate distress, therefore, is changing how we approach everyday water in-take and maintaining body fluid balance. At the same time, terms such as ‘electrolytes’, ‘ORS’ and ‘hydration supplements’ have been gaining significant visibility in the wellness space.
Nonetheless, this shift is not yet as widespread as it appears. For many people, understanding bodily needs and making informed hydration decisions remain outside everyday conversations. Rohan Sehgal, Creator of The Sugar Spike Show says, “It has not yet translated into actual adoption outside the category of people who exercise. People who workout know that sweating a lot does lead to electrolyte loss. Therefore, they have moved on from simple salt and water towards more complete hydration”.
The Liquid Lounge
Yet, while electrolyte supplements are gaining traction, they are not necessarily for everyone, every day. For most healthy adults water is sufficient to meet daily body fluid requirements. Though the body continuously loses water, more rehydration does not mean optimal hydration. The body requires a fine balance of fluids and electrolytes to function efficiently. Sehgal says, “Anyone supplementing should first get a test done to see if they really even need it”. However, for someone spending hours exercising, the equation changes. For fitness-goers, particularly during hot and humid conditions, the body loses significant fluid through sweat. For them, relying on water isn’t enough. Sehgal points out, “There could be a reason for ‘sufficiency’ rather than ‘deficiency’. Meaning, a person could take these protocols to avoid deficiency”.
Old Wisdom
Although there are new products, the Indian taste hasn’t changed. Long before ‘hydration’ became the buzzword, Indian households, for generations, have relied on traditional Indian drinks. Today, these beverages are being reimagined by wellness brands with the changing needs of the consumers. Their positioning has shifted from seasonal household staple to functional drinks for hydration.
The evolution in itself reflects the shift in how fluid replenishment is understood. With the rise of fitness culture and health awareness, people are rethinking hydration as more than just drinking water. It is now being viewed as an essential component for recovery, physical growth and overall wellbeing.
Science of Hydration
Understanding how body fluids function and when the body requires means beyond just water is the key to making informed hydration decisions. While water remains the primary source of hydration, not every situation calls upon the same approach. Prolonged exposure to heat can increase the body’s need for electrolytes. Dr Usha Chennuru, Senior Director, Medical Services at Cipla Health says, “If dehydration occurs due to excessive sweating, heat exposure, fever, or diarrhoea, sugary drinks are not the right choice and may worsen dehydration.” She adds, “Consumers should pick a WHO-recommended ORS, which is specifically formulated to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.”
Consumer Behaviour
With changing temperature, lifestyle and consumer behaviour, India’s hydration routine is changing along the way. What was once a simple response to thirst is now being understood in greater depth and is shaping how people approach rehydration. Alongside, with a growing range of rehydration products, choosing the right supplement is just as important as understanding the need. “Not all hydration products are designed for effective rehydration. Many are formulated for taste or energy and may contain high levels of sugar, which can worsen dehydration”, says Dr Usha.
