Name: Nature's Gatorade (Homemade Electrolyte Drink Recipe)
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups coconut water; 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; ½ teaspoon blue spirulina powder; 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; Pinch of sea salt

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This homemade Nature’s Gatorade is my go-to when I want something refreshing, energizing, and hydrating without any of the artificial colors or added sugars found in store-bought sports drinks. Made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it’s smooth, lightly sweet, and naturally packed with electrolytes.

Nature's Gatorade (Homemade Electrolyte Drink Recipe)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this drink because it’s naturally hydrating thanks to coconut water and a pinch of sea salt. Instead of artificial food dyes, I use blue spirulina, which gives the drink its gorgeous ocean-blue hue while also adding antioxidants. The flavor balances tart lemon juice with just enough sweetness from honey or maple syrup, making it refreshing and light. Best of all, I can make it in just five minutes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

coconut water
lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
blue spirulina powder
honey or maple syrup
sea salt

Directions

I add all the ingredients to a blender.
I blend on high until everything is smooth and well combined.
I pour it over ice and enjoy right away, or I store the leftovers in a mason jar in the fridge.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2 servings. It takes just 5 minutes to prepare since there’s no cooking involved.

Variations

I sometimes swap the lemon juice for lime juice when I want a tangier twist.
For a fun and cooling option, I freeze the drink into ice cubes and drop them into my water bottle.
When I want an extra boost after a workout, I add a scoop of unflavored collagen or an electrolyte powder.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in a sealed mason jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Since it tastes best cold, I like to chill it for at least 30 minutes before drinking if I make it ahead. I always give it a quick stir or shake before serving because the spirulina can settle at the bottom.

FAQs

Does blue spirulina have a taste?

No, blue spirulina is very mild and doesn’t have a noticeable flavor, which makes it perfect for drinks like this.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, I often make a batch and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. It just needs a quick stir or shake before drinking.

What makes it hydrating?

Coconut water is naturally rich in potassium and electrolytes, while the pinch of sea salt helps replace sodium lost during sweating. Together, they create a balanced hydration boost.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, I use maple syrup instead of honey when I want a fully vegan version.

Can I skip the spirulina?

Yes, if I don’t have spirulina on hand, I still make the drink—it just won’t have the bright blue color or the antioxidant boost.

Conclusion

Nature’s Gatorade is a clean, refreshing way I keep hydrated, whether I’m coming back from a workout, enjoying a busy day, or simply craving something tastier than plain water. With just five ingredients and five minutes, it’s a simple recipe I can always rely on for natural hydration and a delicious, energizing boost.