Electrolytes are minerals and chemicals in your body and blood that carry an electric charge. Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and chloride are a specific group of minerals that play a crucial role for the body’s performance and are absolutely vital for life. They’re called electrolytes and control fluid balance, muscle power, contractions and keeping the heart beating. The nerves need to send signals and your cells need to stay hydrated. Electrolytes can be obtained through daily food consumption and water. And in some cases, such as myself, I do consume sports drinks with zero sugar to remain hydrated and it really does help. I tend to be a bit more dehydrated in the summer and oddly enough the summer is one of the most important times to consume electrolytes along with sickness, vomiting, diarrhea and engaging in heavy exercise that’s all due to fluid loss.
The result of loosing these electrolytes can cause some serious damage such as severe fatigue, dizziness, headaches, numbness or tingling and irregular heart beats. Severe imbalance can become dangerous.
How To Obtain Electrolytes:
- Eat fruits and vegetables such as banana’s, green leafy vegetables and avocados.
- Eat nuts, beans, and whole grains.
- Drink water (4-6 glasses a day).
- Use sports drinks or powder drinks during workouts and illnesses.
Serious Warning Signs Of Electrolyte Loss:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Confusion and or brain fog
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
- Severe fatigue
