importance of elecctrolytes

Maintaining the proper balance of electrolytes in your body can mean the difference between feeling great and experiencing significant health problems. Electrolytes are minerals in your blood, urine and body fluid that carry an electrical charge. Your body requires a balance of electrolytes for proper blood chemistry, muscle function and other essential functions. Low electrolyte levels cause cramping, diarrhea and kidney problems. If you experience any of these symptoms, have your doctor measure your electrolyte levels with a blood test.

Role of Electrolytes

Your body must keep the fluid levels in the cells, between the cells and in the blood in balance to function normally. The amount of fluid in these areas depends on the concentration of electrolytes in the area. When proper amounts of electrolytes are present, your body can adjust fluid levels by changing the concentration of electrolytes. High levels of electrolytes draw fluid into an area and low levels move fluid.

Imbalance

Electrolyte imbalance occurs when your body loses fluid to perspiration and urination. As the body becomes dehydrated, failure to replenish electrolytes may cause concentrations to become disproportionate. Certain medications and disorders of the heart, liver or kidney can also lead to electrolyte imbalance. While sodium, calcium, potassium, chlorine, phosphate and magnesium are all important electrolytes, most related health problems occur when levels of sodium, potassium or calcium become unbalanced. The Mayo Clinic notes that mental confusion, muscle cramps, seizures and kidney problems may result from an imbalance of electrolytes.

Kidney Function

While electrolytes are essential for many functions of your body, assisting with proper kidney function and fluid balance is perhaps the most important. The kidneys filter waste and extra water from the body; electrolyte levels rise and fall during filtering. Consuming too much sodium or potassium may lead to kidney damage. Hyponatremia, or consuming too much sodium, is the most common condition caused by irregular electrolyte levels. Hyponatremia, if left untreated, may result in acute renal failure.

Replacing and Maintaining Electrolytes

Replacing electrolytes lost through sweat or a poor diet is a critical factor in maintaining your health. A well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, leafy greens, fresh fruits and vegetables and an occasional dash of salt usually provides the electrolytes your body requires. Competing in athletics or strenuous exercise causes you to lose greater amounts of electrolytes, especially sodium and potassium. Supplementing your diet with sports drinks or fruit juices puts electrolytes back into your body.