The infinite variations of fall colors were displayed along the Aerie to Cockscomb trail in Sedona. The base of the famous red rocks was covered in cottonwood, ash, sycamore, and alder trees. Their leaves blew in the wind, creating a swaying canopy the members of the Bumble Bee bicycle club rode under. It felt magical. “This is why we are here,” LJ thought. He raised his hand, indicating a slowdown, allowing the riders to take it all in.

The group rode into the Boynton Canyon trailhead parking point. It was perfect for picture taking.

“Let’s stop here for lunch, and then it’s a downhill ride from here.”

“This is perfect,” said Johnny. “I understand there are ancient cliff dwellings nearby. Let’s check them out after lunch.

Natasha handed him a water bottle. “That’s a good idea since we’re close to them.”

Johnny nodded and sipped. “This is coconut water.”

“Yes. Coconut water is good to have on our bike rides. It’s not coconut milk, which is made by adding water to grated coconut meat. Coconut water is the liquid of a young green coconut. It has antioxidant properties, is naturally sweet, high in potassium, and is a reliable source of carbs, calcium, magnesium, and sugar, essential during exercise. Coconut water hydrates and replenishes electrolytes after exercise. If I had the time, I would’ve made it, but I did buy a brand that does not add sugar.”

“That’s a good idea,” said Kathy. “I brought electrolyte water.”

“Is that better than regular water?” asked Annie.

Kathy nodded. “I think so. Electrolyte water is excellent for replacing minerals lost during strenuous exercise. In fact, there are five essential electrolytes; sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, all minerals that conduct electricity when dissolved in water. Electrolytes dispense fluid throughout your body and help control fluid balance, regulate blood pressure, maintain ph balance, and support your heart and muscle contraction.”

Jacqui held up her bottle. “This is an Orange-Carrot cooler, a homemade sports drink. It consists of one cup each of fresh carrot juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, water, and 1/8 teaspoon of sea salt. Oranges contain vitamin C for skin, bone, and immune system health. Oranges are also a source of potassium and magnesium. Carrots contain potassium and vitamin A, which helps protect the skin and eyes from harmful UV rays. My healthy homemade sports drink contains water, salt, and minerals to replace what is lost during exercise. It costs pennies to make, and there’s no added sugar.”

LJ nodded, “Send me your recipe if you don’t mind, Jacqui. I brought Pedialyte because it’s hydrating. It is an oral rehydration solution to treat dehydration and quickly boost fluid absorption. If any of us started getting dehydrated, having Pedialyte on hand would be helpful. Plus, it also has electrolyte minerals.”

“That’s smart. Pedialyte isn’t just for kids. Because it rehydrates quickly, it’s also good for flu and stomach viruses.” Allan held up a clear water bottle, “I brought water infused with fruit and veggies. I used cucumber, lemon, oranges, and apples. I’m not a big water fan, so flavoring helps me drink and enjoy it, which is a healthy way to stay hydrated. Water soluble nutrients like vitamins C, B6 & 12, thiamine, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, folic acid, and electrolytes can infuse water, which helps make it hydrating and beneficial.”

“That’s a good segue for the old tried and true water I brought,” laughed Annie. “When in doubt, drink water. It absorbs quickly and helps keep your blood pumping, your kidneys flushed, and your liver expelling toxins. Drinking water is still the most simple and effective way to replace fluids lost during exercise.”

Annie and LJ are a fictional couple. Their storyline promotes healthy eating and earth-friendly practices.