Sunburn ‘Sicles: Red Beet Ice Pops

For the kids and the kids at heart, try this electrolyte replenishing, oxygenating ice pop post-play.

I’m fairly certain it’s well known that when we engage in physical activity, we lose important electrolyte minerals through sweat and exertion. To restore that fluid balance and help our muscles recover from exercise, beverages that contain these electrolytes are extremely important. Where do we get these electrolytes if not from Gatorade? Of course, filtered water should contain trace minerals that allow us to rehydrate and replenish those missing electrolytes, as well as sea salt and Himalayan salt. But is this enough for kids?

A study published in 1996 in the International Journal of Sports Nutrition brought up a very good point: this study rehydrated children exercising with water, then with various flavors of sports drinks. Most children were significantly more hydrated when given a flavored drink as opposed to water, which is something we already knew in the backs of our minds. Even though this study is 15-years old, this type of data is significant because children are usually picky eaters and will seek out sweeter options. The real trick is to introduce these flavors using whole foods rather than processed sugar and artificial colors.

These ice pops are basically little electrolyte replenishers that help kids can cool down and rehydrate. Coconut water is one of the best sources of potassium, a mineral that needs to be replenished to achieve proper fluid balance and to allow muscles to recover. Flora Red Beet Crystals, made from just organic beets, contain a precursor to nitric oxide which oxygenates the blood, expands blood vessels, and increases blood supply. They also contain antioxidants to counter oxidative stress. Plus, fresh fruit like blueberries provide some carbohydrates for glycogen replenishment, as well as other important nutrients like fiber and vitamin C.

Enjoy the recipe for these tasty summer ice pops.

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high for 2 minutes until very smooth.
2. In an ice pop mold (this one and this one work very well), pour the resulting liquid up to 2 cm from the top of the mold.
3. Freeze this without popsicle sticks for 1.5 hours. Then, when the mixture is slightly frozen, push popsicle sticks into the popsicle molds. At this point, you can add a sprinkle of Red Beet Crystals to each popsicle, until it reaches the top of the mold.
4. Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
5. To remove popsicles, fill a tall glass with cool water and dip one of the molds straight into the glass. Let this sit for 30 seconds, then wiggle the popsicle until it comes loose.

Lindsey Young is a registered holistic nutritionist, advocate for intuitive eating, and functional food recipe creator. For the original hot cacao post and more delicious recipes, follow her on Instagram @eatyoungnutrition and visitEatYoungNutrition.com.