Why you should prevent Electrolyte (sodium-potassium-) Imbalance

Today, we will discuss an important but less discussed topic that is electrolyte imbalance. Often awareness about this in the home setting can prevent serious issues and hospitalization.



Electrolyte imbalance is very common especially during illnesses and in the elderly. The two most common electrolytes that we all are aware of are sodium and potassium. In fact sodium imbalance is one of the most complex electrolyte disorder that is common.


What are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are essential minerals in your body that carry an electric charge. These are elements that occur naturally in the body. They are necessary for some important physiologic body functions. For example nerve and muscle function, the body-fluid balance, and other critical processes.



In fact electrolytes are present in your blood, plasma, urine, and other fluids. Electrolytes exist in the form of sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate etc. You usually obtain them naturally from fluids, supplements, and foods.



The body regulates the electrolytes as per its own requirement. The kidneys help to maintain the balance of electrolyte concentration in your body. Some of the electrolytes is returned to the blood while the excess is passed into the urine.



However, you will need additional fluids to replace the water lost in sweat during physical activity. Also you should replenish water and electrolytes lost during exercise and sports activities.