What About Electrolytes

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The
Importance 
of 
Electrolytes












What are electrolytes? 
Electrolytes are important for the body to maintain fluid balance. The body loves to be in a homeostatic state. This means it likes to be stable, or in equilibrium, with maintenance of elements within the body. Electrolytes are important for everyone. Just about every single fluid & cell within the body contains them. They are absorbed by our bodies from the foods we eat & the fluids we drink. They are lost through sweat or urine. Electrolytes aid in muscle contraction, which is why they are such a big deal in the world of sports. There are 7 major key electrolytes we focus on, though there are many more not discussed here. 
Sodium (+) : Fluid balance within cells 
Magnesium (+) : Aids in the process of cells turning nutrients to energy 
Potassium (+) : Fluid balance within cells & heart function 
Calcium (+) : Bone growth, muscle, nerve & heart function 
Chloride (-) : Fluid balance within cells & pH balance 
Phosphate (-) : Transportation of molecules outside cells & nutrient metabolism,
Bicarbonate (-) : Normal blood pH 

Who needs electrolytes? 
Everyone! 
Your body needs electrolytes every day to function properly. If you are consuming fruits & vegetables with recommended amounts of water daily, you are getting most of the electrolytes you need. 
People who participate in strenuous activity or daily exercise may need more than an individual who has a desk job. Dehydration can also require more electrolytes to ensure water is entering the cells. 

Can you drink too many electrolytes? 
Yes, common symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance, or too many for your body to regulate include:  
  • confusion 
  • irritability 
  • irregular heart rate 
  • breathing difficulties 
  • fatigue 
  • headaches 
  • muscle cramps/weakness
  • diarrhea/constipation
  • nausea/vomiting
Electrolytes are known for being consumed through sports drinks. Today, there are more options than ever. While these drinks can be beneficial to those who are working out intensely, it is important to remember that these drinks contain other elements that the body is not recommended to have every hour of the day. Water is a great tool for rehydrating the body in most cases.

In summary, the body needs electrolytes in amounts that can typically be obtained through food. Electrolyte drinks can be a good tool for athletes or individuals who are dehydrated/lost a lot of sweat, but these drinks contain other ingredients that we need to be careful of. Overconsumption of these beverages can cause electrolyte imbalances when drinking more than recommended. Water is the best tool for rehydration in most cases. 


Resources: 
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/21790-electrolytes 
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/too-many-electrolytes

JM

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