Against a backdrop of rising global temperatures and prolonged summer heatwaves , Viridian Nutrition is forecasting electrolytes to be the breakthrough nutrients in the 2026 wellness trends.

Experts at the supplement company have announced electrolytes to be the most sought-after nutrients in the year ahead due to their powerful and health.

It follows the surging popularity of active lifestyles and a significant shift in global temperatures resulting in hotter summers and extreme heat, which in turn has brought the importance of hydration into sharp focus. 

Viridian nutrition director Aimee Benbow, said: “Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health but with temperatures hitting record highs year-after-year and heatwaves becoming more frequent, we’re expecting to see a huge spike in electrolytes as a way to replenish fluids, and not just for those with active lifestyles.” 

Electrolytes are essential minerals and trace elements and without them the body will not function properly. Electrolytes can help the body refuel liquids lost through eg sweat or following illness but dehydration and l ow electrolyte levels or an electrolyte imbalance can impact a number of essential bodily functions such as nerves and muscle function, performance and recovery.

NHS GP and ultra runner Dr Siobhan Brennan, said: “It’s important to keep on top of your body’s electrolyte levels when training as they’re essential minerals that the body needs to stay hydrated.

“As an ultra-runner, this is particularly important taking part in prolonged training sessions and competition events. I make electrolyte drinks part of my running routine. I use after intense gym sessions but also in my day -to -day routine as par active recovery, to keep me topped up. This ensures I am always repleted and ready to face what the next day brings.”

Benbow, continued: “To ensure people get the full health benefits from electrolytes, it’s important to choose minerals salts which are extracted from a clean and natural source, bottled without the need for preservatives or anything artificial. “Viridian sources its electrolytes from The Great Salt Lake, in Utah, which offers a pristine environment for the water, rich in natural mineral salts, to be harvested.”

Over the next 12 months, Viridian says it will roll out an awareness campaign spreading nutritional education via specialist health stores and on its social media.