We have all heard the term electrolytes and that they are important, but do you know why?
Most “sports drinks” tout having electrolytes that assist in replenishing lost water and energy, which sounds very helpful, especially during a workout.
But are they really that important?
Actually, yes – very. But like most things, too much of a good thing isn’t always the best for you.
What are electrolytes?
Electrolytes are substances with natural positive or negative electrical charges when dissolved in water. Since your body is roughly 60% water, nearly every fluid and cell in your body contains electrolytes.
Normally, your body gets electrolytes or their components from what you eat and drink. There are five main electrolytes:
- Sodium
- Chloride
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Potassium
Your cells take these in to conduct electricity to perform bodily functions (more on that in a second). Your kidneys then filter excess electrolytes out of your body, or you lose electrolytes when you sweat.
Why are they important?
Electrolytes assist in four key functions:
- Regulate nerve and muscle function
- Hydrate the body
- Balance blood acidity and pressure
- Help rebuild damaged tissue
Needless to say, the better and faster your muscles can contract, the more hydrated you are, the more even your blood pressure is, and how quickly your muscles can be repaired (or how slowly they break down), the better you’re going to perform that physical activity.
That’s what makes electrolytes so important during and after physical activity and why most sports drinks contain them.
Too much of a good thing?
Considering the significant physical benefits, one might think taking in extra electrolytes every day can only make you a healthier person more equipped to handle physical tasks.
The problem is that your body is only meant to take in about 1,600-2,000 electrolytes a day. After that, the body needs to use them via physical activity, lose them through sweat, or get rid of them to prevent toxicity.
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