Why it is important to drink Electrolytes?
That neon-colored drinks packed in plastic bottles are a common sight nowadays. Those drinks not only look appealing but have a great impact on health. Even that packaged water tastes different due to added minerals which are beneficial for our health.
Before going into depth, let us
know the basics.
What is ‘Electrolyte’?
These are the minerals found in the blood. Electrolytes help in regulating and controlling the fluid balance of the body. In basic body functions such as regulation of blood pressure, muscle contraction, and general functioning, electrolytes play a major role.
What are the
big three electrolytes?
The three electrolytes are
●
Magnesium
●
Sodium
● Potassium
Other electrolytes that the human body includes are:
●
Calcium
●
Bicarbonate
●
Chloride
●
Phosphate
Facts on electrolytes:
● Electrolytes are an important element for the proper functioning
of the human body
● Vegetables and fresh fruits are great sources of electrolytes.
● Electrolyte imbalance may cause weakness, seizures, twitching, and
heart disturbance.
● Compared to youth, the older generation is at a higher risk of electrolyte imbalance.
What will happen if there is a shortage of electrolytes in blood?
Our bodies need a required amount of electrolytes for good health and performance. Losing these minerals could result in dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. This could be a lousy experience. There might be muscle cramping and spasms too.
For instance, to contract, a muscle needs calcium, potassium, and sodium. If any of the above three is imbalanced, the result could be muscle weakness or excessive contraction. Electrolytes also help in carrying electrical impulses from muscles, heart, and nerve cells to the brain.
How to treat
electrolyte imbalance?
Electrolyte imbalance involves
●
High levels
of electrolytes
●
Low levels of
electrolytes
In the prior case, treatment will
be dependent on the excess. Low levels are usually supplemented.
There is a concept of Oral rehydration Therapy. The World Health
Organization (WHO) has approved a solution to be used in the therapy.
It consists of:
● 2.6 grams (g) of sodium
● 1.5 g of potassium chloride
● 2.9 g of sodium citrate
These are dissolved in 1 liter (l) of water and given orally.
What are the
potential benefits of electrolytes?
1. Improves Exercise Performance
Electrolyte enhanced water benefits fitness enthusiasts by maintaining the optimum water-level in the body. There is a large amount of energy and electrolytes lost during exercise. The sweat released contains a major portion of sodium which the body loses. On average, 1 gram of sodium is lost with every liter of sweat (The body needs some additional fluids other than water. Electrolyte loaded drinks help to restore the balance and would improve performance.
2. Rehydration
If the body is dehydrated, it can stop functioning regularly. Some symptoms of dehydration include thirst, dried lips and skin, nausea, and, dizzyness. Infants and young children are at high risk of diarrhea and vomiting condition. This could lead to dehydration. As per the American Academy of Pediatrics, oral rehydration should be used as the first solution to the illness. This oral rehydration solution is usually a combination of water, carbohydrates, and electrolytes. However, it is not recommended for treating severe diarrhea. If the illness lasts for more than 24 hours, one should seek medical help.
3.
Preventing
Heat-Stroke
The human body is made up of
chemicals. An imbalance in these chemicals could have a severe effect on the
functioning of the body. Now you know the potential reason why those weak students
used to faint during the school assembly.
It is important to monitor the
electrolytes, particularly after severe workout sessions. Stay hydrated all the
time with natural antioxidant for healthy lifestyle. Stay Happy.
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