Electrolytes, from a chemistry standpoint, means any solution that can conduct electricity. Here we will be discussing electrolytes of importance in the human body. When certain salts are dissolved in water, they break apart into ions and create an electrolyte solution. These ions ("electrolytes") play important roles in balancing fluid levels in the body. Electrolyte supplements also play a role in the function of nerves, and muscles, as well as oxygen delivery and acid-base regulation in the blood.

Types of Electrolytes

The electrolytes of greatest importance in the human body are sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate and carbonate. These are often found in different forms of salt, for instance, table salt is a combination of two of these ions: sodium and chloride or for a better option, consider Celtic salt. 

Role of Electrolytes

All living creatures require electrolytes to help balance the fluid levels between their cells and the surrounding extracellular environment. Electrolytes also help to regulate the pH of your blood, and the ability of your red blood cells to deliver oxygen throughout the body. They are also the substances responsible for conducting signals along your nerves and also within your muscles. Thus, electrolytes are essential for nerve and muscle function.

Health Benefits of Electrolyte Supplements

Electrolyte Supplements & Muscles

The contraction of your muscles is what allows you to move your body and perform your daily actions such as walking and even blinking. Muscular contraction requires calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. Without sufficient amounts of these ions, muscle weakness or severe muscle cramps can occur. Because the heart is a muscle, imbalances in these electrolytes can lead to heart arrhythmias and even death.

Electrolyte Supplements & Nerves

The most important electrolytes for use in nerve cells are sodium, potassium, and calcium. There are pumps all along nerves that pump these ions across their membranes to create a difference in charge between the inside and outside of the cell. It is through this charge difference that nerve impulses occur. Sufficient amounts of electrolytes are essential for the proper function of the nervous system.

Ensuring Electrolyte Balance

The body tightly controls the balance of electrolytes and water in your body. There are a few hormones, such as antidiuretic hormone, aldosterone, calcitonin and parathyroid hormone that all work together to control the concentration of electrolytes in the blood via the kidneys, which in turn controls the electrolyte concentrations in the cells of your body. Thus, there needs to be sufficient levels of each ion in the body. Also, because it is the concentration of these ions in the water portion of your blood that is of such importance, dehydration or over-hydration can cause an electrolyte imbalance.

Causes of Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolyte imbalance is most commonly caused by dehydration or overexertion. It can be triggered by: diarrhea, vomiting, and sweating, all of which promote the loss of electrolytes. Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance are the same as those of dehydration: lethargy, muscle weakness, low blood pressure, rapid or irregular heart rate, and in severe cases, even shock and coma. Often, in the early stages, simply rehydrating with water can help to alleviate the problems, although if symptoms don't resolve, emergency medical attention is necessary.

How To Get More Electrolytes

Importance of Water

To have their effect, electrolytes must be in their ionic form, which only occurs when they are properly dissolved in water. Because of this, a delicate balance is needed between electrolytes and water in the body. Too much of either will cause disruptions in proper muscle and nerve function, a condition known as electrolyte imbalance.

Commercial Sports Drinks

Most of the commercial sports drinks on the market claim to contain replenishing electrolytes. While they do have some, they also contain massive amounts of sugar and usually also have several additives and food dyes as well. These substances are unnecessary and in some cases can be detrimental to body function, particularly in athletes. Whenever possible, it is usually a better idea to use more natural sources of electrolytes like Celtic salt. 

Celtic Salt As An Electrolyte Supplement

Celtic salt is a sea salt that's made from evaporated seawater. It is a natural and high-quality form of salt that is raw, unrefined and unprocessed. Because of its lack of processing, Celtic salt will often appear grey, keeps its natural form and has a more natural taste. Celtic salt isn't only good as a seasoning; however, it also packs a hefty dose of minerals and electrolytes. 

Celtic salt is a natural source of sodium, potassium and magnesium. Although it is lower in sodium chloride, making it great for those watching their sodium intake, it offers electrolytes that are crucial for maintaining proper hydration, nerve and muscle function and pH balance. 

You can reap the benefits of Celtic salt by adding a little to your drinking water to get a natural dose of electrolytes that are higher quality than table salt or sugar-filled commercial products. 

Electrolyte Supplements: Boosting Hydration Naturally

While the food that you eat can provide the daily dose of electrolytes required by your body, with soil being depleted in nutrients, you may not get enough from diet alone. In times of depletion, such as prolonged illness with vomiting and diarrhea, or with prolonged strenuous exercise, it is a good idea to replenish essential electrolytes. This will help your body maintain its fluid balance. 

There are some simple homemade electrolyte solutions available on the internet, although many require ingredients from a compounding pharmacy. There are many electrolyte replacement formulas available as supplements as well. Some are tablets, or capsules while others are powders that can easily be mixed with water. It is important to select a natural source that isn't filled with sugar and always take in sufficient water with electrolytes to help your body maintain homeostasis. Dosing of electrolytes depends on your current need, but since they are so tightly regulated by your body, excess will simply be released. In general, it is a good idea to follow the dosing instructions provided by the manufacturer of each product.