05/25/2023
You may have heard that electrolytes are good for you, but what are they and what do they do specifically? To be concise, electrolytes are minerals that become electrically charged when mixed with water. Some examples of these minerals include:
Potassium
Sodium
Calcium
Magnesium
Bicarbonate
Chloride
Phosphate
Zinc
Electrolytes serve the body in many ways. They help nerves and muscles to function properly, including the heart. Electrolytes help to control blood pressure, balance acidity, and repair damaged tissues while preventing dehydration. They balance the water levels in your body, your pH level, nourish cells, and remove waste from cells.
Some signs that your electrolytes have become imbalanced include muscle cramps and spasms, dizziness, nausea, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, and abnormal anxiety.
By regularly eating foods that are rich in electrolytes (see the second picture for some examples), taking supplementary vitamins to maintain good levels (especially after exercising), and keeping electrolyte powder on hand to mix into water as needed, you can maintain a healthy balance within your body. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or wish to discuss options!