Electrolytes
What are electrolytes? They are essential minerals crucial to hydration and maintaining the body's fluid balance and pH levels.
Electrolyte benefits
Electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, and phosphate. When dissolved in body fluids, they carry an electrical charge, allowing them to conduct electrical signals throughout the body.
These minerals are involved in numerous physiological processes, including:
- Sustaining proper hydration
- Regulating fluid distribution within and between cells
- Maintaining normal pH levels
- Supporting muscle contraction and function
- Enabling nerve signalling throughout the body
Why electrolyte balance matters
Maintaining adequate electrolyte levels is important for overall health and physical performance. Electrolytes are lost through sweat, especially during exercise or hot weather, and through diarrhoea or vomiting.
An electrolyte imbalance occurs when electrolyte levels are too low (deficiency) or too high. This can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, and dizziness, affecting physical function and well-being.
