Electrolytes are minerals — such as sodium and potassium — that dissolve in water, forming positively and negatively charged molecules. As a result, electrolytes have multiple important roles in the body, including water-balance regulation, acid–base balance, nerve signaling, and muscle contraction.
“Electrolytes are essential for maintaining the equilibrium of the fluids inside our bodies,” explains Lisa Moskovitz, RD, CDN.
Up to 60 percent of the body is water, which is stored inside cells, in the space between cells, and in the blood. If you eat something salty, your body might signal you to drink to dilute the sodium and maintain electrolyte balance. Or, if you are mildly dehydrated, the body will tell your kidneys to conserve water by releasing less urine.
Signs of an electrolyte imbalance include weakness, twitching and muscle spasms, confusion, and irregular heartbeat.
A nutrient-dense diet can provide plenty of electrolytes for most people, says Moskovitz. Heavy exercisers, high-intensity athletes, or people recovering from a dehydrating stomach virus are especially likely to benefit from supplementing with electrolyte water or gel.
This was excerpted from “5 Essential Minerals to Support Your Mind and Body” which was published in Experience Life.
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