An electrolyte, a substance that conducts electric current when it is dissolved in water, is also known as a conductive substance. It is essential for bodily function. For survival, electrolytes are essential. Electrolytes are essential for many bodily functions. Electrolytes are interconnected and interact with cells in tissues and nerves as well as muscles and muscle cells.
The human body has the following electrolytes:
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Bicarbonate
- Magnesium
- Chlorine
- Phosphate
Electrolyte imbalance
Electrolyte levels may vary depending on the level of water in the body, and other factors. An imbalance may occur when electrolyte levels are too high, too low or both. During exercise, essential electrolytes such as sodium and potassium are lost through sweat. Rapid dehydration can also cause concentration problems, as in the case of vomiting or diarrhea.
The concentration of each electrolyte is controlled by the hormones and kidneys. The kidneys will filter out excessive amounts of a substance and balance it with different hormones. These electrolytes should be replaced in order to maintain healthy levels.
Symptoms of an imbalance in the electrolytes
Unbalanced levels of calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium can lead to a variety of health problems. You may experience one or more symptoms.
- An irregular heartbeat
- Weakness
- Bone disorders
- Blood pressure changes
- seizures
- Nullness
- Nervous system disorders
- Overstrain
- Contractions
- Muscle spasms
Electrolyte imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors
- Kidney disease
- It is important to not replenish electrolytes after exercising or to keep hydrated.
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- malnutrition
- severe dehydration
- Acid-base imbalance: An imbalance in acid-base ratio or in the proportion of acids and alkalis within the body
- Congestive heart failure
- Cancer treatment
- Some drugs, diuretics
- bulimia
- Old age kidney disease can lead to inadequacy of kidney control
Treatment method
The Type of treatment The severity and nature of the imbalance will also play a role. Low electrolyte levels can usually be treated with required electrolyte supplements. But, sometimes, symptoms can be severe and require treatment. During treatment, a person might need to be admitted and kept in check.
You can make your own oral rehydration treatment at home.
- 1 liter water
- One tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/3 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 teaspoon baking soda
Food sources of electrolytes
| Electrolyte | Food |
| Sodium | Pickled Cucumbers Tomato juice, sauce and soup Table salt |
| Chlorine | Olives Lettuce Tomato juice, sauce and soup Table salt |
| Potassium | Potatoes (with or without skin) full-fat yogurt BananaApricot |
| Magnesium | Whole grains Pumpkin seeds Spinach |
| Calcium | Dairy products greens Spinach Castle Sardine |
Recommended intake
The right amount of electrolytes can lead to improvements in symptoms. If symptoms persist, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions.
The following are the recommended daily intakes for electrolytes most commonly found in adults:
| Electrolyte | Recommended Purchase Amount
In milligrams (mg) |
| Sodium | 1,500 |
| Potassium | 4,700 |
| Calcium | 1,000 |
| Magnesium | 320 for men420 pour les femmes |
| Chlorine | 2,300 |