Electroylytes
What is an electrolyte?
Electrolytes are the minerals in your blood, urine, and body fluids that partially dissociate in water to form ions.
Examples are:
- Calcium
- Chlorine
- Magnesium
- Sodium
- Phosphorous
- Potassium
What do electrolytes do for us?
Electrolytes affect the amount of water in your body, blood acidity (pH), muscle action, and other important processes. You lose electrolytes when you sweat, and you must replace them by drinking fluids.
Electrolytes exist in the blood as acids, bases, and salts (such as sodium, calcium, potassium, chlorine, magnesium, and bicarbonate). They can be measured by laboratory studies of the blood.
References:
- Boyle, Marie A., and Sara Long. Personal Nutrition, Seventh Edition California, Wadsworth College Learning, 2010. Pg. G-5.
- “Fluid and Electrolyte Balance.” U.S. National Library of Medicine. May 05, 2011. Retrieved June 16, 2011 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus>
- “Electrolytes.” U.S. National Library of Medicine. June 03, 2011. Retrieved June 16, 2011 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus>
Disclaimer
Reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, and the information provided herein is believed to be accurate. However, this information is not intended to constitute an “authoritative statement” under Food and Drug Administration rules and regulations.
General Safety Advisory
This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is important to seek the advice of a physician about any medical condition or symptom. It is also important to seek the advice of a physician, registered dietitian, pharmacist, or other qualified health professional about the appropriateness of taking dietary supplements and their potential interactions with medications.