DEFINITION, ROLES, IMBALANCE, AND SOURCES OF ELECTROLYTES-min

DEFINITION, ROLES, IMBALANCE, AND SOURCES OF ELECTROLYTES

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An electrolyte is a substance that conducts electrical charges when dissolved in water. Electrolytes perform several key functions in the body. Common electrolytes include potassium, bicarbonate, sodium, and calcium. They control muscle and nerve function, balance blood acidity and pressure, hydrate the body and rebuild damaged tissues. Also, they interact with each other and the cells in the nerves, tissues, and muscles.

Electrolytes are vital for survival. Various automatic processes in the body depend on the small electric current, and electrolytes represent the source of this charge. A balance of various electrolytes is crucial for the body’s functioning. The neurons and muscles aresometimes referred to as the electric tissues of the body. There must be enough quantity of electrolytes obtained from the diet to maintain normal body functioning. The concept of electrolytes has not been well understood. That is why most people don’t bother knowing the different aspects of electrolytes. Fortunately, this blog will discuss electrolytes, their roles, risks of imbalance, and potential sources.

Electrolyte Definition

The electrolyte is a term referring to particles that conveys a negative or positive electric charge. In nutrition, it describes the vital minerals contained in the blood, urine, or sweat. If these minerals are disintegrated into fluids, they produce electrolytes- negative or positive ions used in digestion. Electrolytes in the human body include chloride, sodium, calcium, phosphate, potassium, bicarbonate, and magnesium.

The above electrolytes are needed for the vast bodily processes, such as maintaining acid-base balance, keeping the body hydrated, normal nerve and muscle functioning.  A muscle requires calcium, potassium, and sodium to contract. In case these substances become imbalanced, it might result in either muscle weakness or excessive contraction. The muscle, heart, and nerve cells use electrolytes to convey electrical impulses to other cells.

Roles

Proper Hydration

Water should be maintained in the correct quantities, including outside and inside every cell in the body. Electrolytes, especially sodium, maintain fluid balance through osmosis.  Osmosis is the process that allows water to move via the cell membrane wall from a dilute solution (higher water and lesser electrolytes) towards a higher concentrated solution (lesser water and higher electrolytes). This process hinders cells from crushing as a result of collapsing because of dehydration.

Nervous System Function

The human brain transmits electric signals through the nerve cells to coordinate with cells in the whole body. These signals are referred to as nerve impulses, and alterations produce them to the electrical charges of the nerve cell membrane. The alterations occur because of the transmission of the electrolyte sodium through the nerve cell membrane. After that, it triggers a chain reaction, carrying higher sodium ions (and the modifications in charge) in line with the length of the nerve cell axon.

Muscle Function

The electrolyte calcium is required for muscle contraction. It permits muscle fibers to slide together and move over one another as the muscle shortens and contracts. Magnesium is also needed in this process so that the muscle fibers can slide outward and relax after contraction.

Internal pH Levels

The body needs to control its internal pH to have good health. The term PH is measured by the alkalinity or acidity of a solution. In the body, it’s controlled by weak bases and acids, which aid in minimizing changes in the body’s internal environment. For instance, the blood is controlled to have a PH of about 7.35 to 7.45. If it changes from this, the body can’t operate normally, and you might be sick. Having the correct number of electrolytes is basic in keeping the blood pH at a normal level.

Risks of Electrolyte Imbalance

In certain instances, electrolyte amounts in the blood can either be excess or less, causing an imbalance. Alterations in electrolytes may carry health risks and, to some extent, may be terminal in a few cases. Crucial electrolytes like potassium and sodium are lost in sweat during exercise.  Electrolyte imbalances usually happen because of dehydration brought by excessive heat, diarrhea, or vomiting. Therefore, be mindful of substituting any lost fluid when you are sick.

Certain sicknesses, including eating disorders, kidney disease, and injuries such as extreme burns, can also lead to electrolyte imbalances. An imbalance may result in a health issue when the concentration of a certain electrolyte is higher than the body can regulate. Low levels of electrolytes might also affect overall health. In case there is a mild electrolyte disturbance, there would probably be no symptoms. Nevertheless, more serious imbalances might lead to symptoms including confusion, convulsions, fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, and headaches. In case there are symptoms in you, ensure you discuss them with the doctor.

Dietary Sources of Electrolytes

The ideal way to attain and maintain a balance is via a nutritious diet. The major food sources are vegetables and fruits. Nonetheless, in the western dishes, a prevalent spring of sodium and chloride is a common salt. The following are examples of foods that offer electrolytes:

  • Potassium-vegetables and fruits like avocado, bananas, plain yogurt, and sweet potatoes.
  • Chloride-tomato juices, soups, sauces, table salt, and olives
  • Calcium- green leafy vegetables, fortified dairy choices, sardines, ricotta, and dairy products.
  • Sodium-cheese, pickled foods, table salt, tomato juices, and soups.
  • Magnesium- nuts, halibut, spinach, and pumpkin seeds

It is essential to know the amount of each electrolyte in various foods and drinks. Supplements are also an alternative for managing low levels of an electrolyte. For instance, older folks often do not take enough potassium. Treatments with corticosteroids or diuretic diagnoses can also reduce these levels. In this case, potassium can improve the concentration in the blood.

Some gels, sports drinks, and candies can restore electrolytes like sodium and potassium during and after exercise. They can also assist the body in retaining water. However, these products sometimes have high electrolyte contents, and consuming too much can cause excessive intake. Others also contain high levels of sugar. It is crucial to strictly follow any treatment or supplementation plan that a health professional recommends.

Conclusion

Electrolytes are referred to as the minerals that transmit electricity when put in water. They are an essential part of a person’s chemical makeup and pivotal to the body’s nervous system. Most people achieve their electrolyte requirements via a nutritious diet. An imbalance may affect the normal functioning of the body and result in various symptoms. For instance, if an individual feels faint after a workout, electrolyte imbalance might be the reason. Taking electrolytes during or after intense exercise and other periods of profuse sweating can assist in maintaining balance. Ensure that you always stay hydrated and contact a doctor if you have any concerns.

Crystal Kadir

MS, Durham University
GP

The work of a family doctor includes a wide range of clinical diversity, which requires extensive knowledge and erudition from a specialist. However, I believe that the most important thing for a family doctor is to be human because the cooperation and understanding between the doctor and the patient are crucial in ensuring successful health care. On my days off, I love being in nature. Since childhood, I have been passionate about playing chess and tennis. Whenever I have time off, I enjoy traveling around the world.

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