"What's Nuun?" Wednesday

Hood to Coast van-mate Dorothy at Mile Posts commented on Facebook that we all kind of take for granted that our readers know what Nuun is.  Yes, I spout on and on about how I love it and how grateful I am for the opportunity they've given me.  But I guess I am assuming that everyone knows what it is and how it works.  And I know that isn't true.  Case in point: I've found myself explaining it to co-workers and we sell it at our store!  So here's a cheat-sheet, so to speak, about Nuun.*

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What is Nuun?
Simply put, it's flavoured electrolyte tabs that you put in your water.  

What is in Nuun?
Stuff that helps you NOT bonk.  Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B2.  There's some other scientific-y stuff too.  If you love the extra boost, there is caffeine in Kona Cola and Lemon Tea.

What's not in Nuun?
Carbs (so use food or gels/chews too!), Sugar, Gluten, Corn (but some products used to make Nuun might have it so not totally corn free) or Animal byproducts. 

Why is Nuun good?
See the not bonking part!  The worst part about sports and exercise is running out of steam.  By replacing your electrolytes as you sweat you keep your body happy.  Here are the cut-and-paste reasons electrolytes are important: 

"The body has to perform a delicate balancing act to keep water and electrolyte levels just right. For example, whenever sodium levels dip too low, the kidneys are stimulated to produce more urine, which restores the balance by lowering the amount of water in the blood. And when the sodium level gets too high, thirst develops, stimulating the person to drink. A hormone is also secreted by the brain in response to thirst that causes the kidneys to produce less urine. Together, these effects result in dilution of the sodium and the restoration of balance." 

Or, in layman's terms:

"Nuun’s special formulation of electrolytes helps increase the amount of water that’s absorbed into the blood stream. That means more of the water you drink is actually used to hydrate you instead of being eliminated because the electrolyte balance wasn't right."

No sugar!  And it's safe to use if you are diabetic.

Under 8 calories per tab, which is technically 2 servings.

How does one use Nuun?
Find favourite bottle or glass.  Fill with 16 oz of water or cut a tab in half and use 8 oz.  Select one of 11 Nuun flavours - or 15 if you add in the 4 U Hydration flavours - and drop in water.  Watch it bubble and dissolve (it's not carbonated, but does have a slight fizz if you don't let it sit for a couple of minutes).  Drink and Enjoy!  

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Who can use Nuun?
Anyone.  You don't have to be an athlete to like it and use it.  It's not going to hurt to get electrolytes.   

Hopefully this gives you an idea of why I love Nuun.  If nothing else it's another tool to keep in your running box!  

If you have more questions ask away!  I'll do my best to come up with an answer for you.





* This is good practice because I'm going to have to explain it to people on site in August!