Electrolytes

Definition

Electrolytes are minerals in your body that help maintain fluid balance and ensure that nerves, muscles, and organs function properly.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Electrolytes are substances that produce an electrically conducting solution when dissolved in a polar solvent, such as water. They typically include essential minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium, chloride, and phosphate, which are crucial for a wide range of physiological processes, including nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and maintaining acid-base balance in the body.

Benefits

• Regulate nerve and muscle function
• Balance blood acidity and pressure
• Help rebuild damaged tissue
• Ensure the proper hydration of the body's organs

Examples

• Sodium in table salt
• Potassium in bananas
• Calcium in dairy products
• Magnesium in nuts and seeds
• Chloride in tomatoes

Additional Information

• effects: Electrolytes have crucial effects on the body including regulating fluid balance, aid in muscle contractions, and contribute to conducting nerve impulses.

Related Terms

• Dehydration
• Minerals
• Electrolyte Imbalance
• Hydration

References

• Electrolytes in Health
• Role of Electrolytes