Electrolytes don’t make your body move, however, they do help it run smoothly. Like a battery in an automobile, these minerals found in your blood and body fluids stimulate voltages that carry electrical impulses – in the kind of nerve nerves and muscle contractions across your cells.

The electrical energy helps keep your organs in good working order. In reality, electrolytes aid in maintaining the best performance of your digestive, nervous muscular, and cardiac systems. We will now cover essential aspects, such as how your body regulates electrolytes, what indicators indicate you are suffering from electrolyte imbalances, and, the most important thing, how to replenish electrolytes that are missing.

How does the body regulate electrolytes?

The kidneys of your body are the center for monitoring electrolytes. They track changes in your body from shifts within electrolyte concentrations.

Exercising for a long time is the most frequent way to deplete electrolytes. The hotter the temperature, as well as the harder exercise, the more water is lost. In the words of the American College of Sports Medicine On average, people lose around 2 to 6 percent of the weight of their bodies during exercise sessions as sweat is released.

Another main cause of electrolyte loss occurs in the case of chronic nausea or diarrhea. These fluids must be replaced to prevent dehydration and to maintain vital bodily functions correctly.

Also, if the type of person who is a fervent exerciser you should follow a rigorous workout program. If you have a medical issue that demands constant monitoring of your fluid intake and exercise, Edrea Jones M.D. a Nephrologist, suggests talking to your physician to know your limits and your intake of fluids.

“Staying hydrated is key to proper body function. You should always carry a bottle of water with you. Except for that, you can pack electrolyte powder packets in your backpack as well, and if you have a chance you should add them to your water.” says Dr. Jones.

Signs of electrolyte imbalance

If the level of the electrolyte within your body is high or too low, you could develop:

• Dizziness
• Cramps
• Irregular heartbeat
• Mental confusion
• The most frequent sign of low electrolytes is muscle cramping. It can be excruciating and debilitating.

Maintaining electrolyte levels

The best way to keep electrolytes in balance in your body is to be aware of your thirst. The doctor Dr. Jones recommends drinking about two cups of fluid two hours before any physical activity. After that, you should drink 4 to 6 ounces per 15-20 minutes during physical activity. Finally, have a drink after you have finished exercising.

How do you replenish electrolytes?

Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining an electrolyte balance. It is the most natural option for getting hydrated. It’s not as expensive and is more readily available than other drinks. Coconut water is an alternative for replenishing electrolytes. Coconut water is low in glycemic index, therefore it will not significantly alter your blood sugar. Studies have also demonstrated that it may help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure which is a good reason to drink it.

But, sports drinks are often more attractive. They are a source of electrolytes as well as carbohydrates, which provide body energy. Many sports drinks have calcium chloride or sodium chloride included and are electrolytes majorly lost when exercising. The sugar and flavor that these drinks usually provide can encourage users to drink a greater quantity compared to water.

Drinks to stay clear of

The carbonated drinks in soft drinks and fruit juices and energy drinks should all be avoided as sources of hydration. They’re packed with sugar and empty calories. The carbs found in these drinks provide temporary energy boosts instead of long-term benefits. “Staying well-hydrated benefits our bodies in so many intricate ways,” says Dr. Jones. “Our bodies are extremely complex, and water is a vital part of life, and we cannot survive without it. It is the reason that no one can stay for more than three to five days without water intake.”