The Power of Electrolytes

What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are chemicals in the body that are able to pass through an electrical current when in water. They are important in the body for many purposes like regulating the nerves and muscles, hydrating the body, balancing blood acidity and pressure, as well as rebuilding damaged tissue, which can be particularly important after a good workout.

Some of the most important electrolytes in the body are calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, chloride, bicarbonate, and phosphate. We’ll have a look at some of these in a bit more detail.

Calcium

Calcium is one of the key contributors for healthy bones and teeth, and it works closely with vitamin D for bone cell synthesis. Calcium also is important for blood clotting, which although this sounds bad, is essential for stopping any open cuts from bleeding.

Potassium

Potassium is important for maintaining healthy nerve transmission and is a key component for muscle contraction. It is also one of the major regulators for heart and blood pressure.

Sodium

Sodium helps maintain the levels of fluid in the body and therefore is very important in regulating blood pressure. Like the other mentioned electrolytes, sodium is also a key regulator for heart and blood pressure.

Magnesium

Magnesium is important for boosting your immune system to make your body more effective at fighting diseases. It is also valuable for regulating blood glucose levels, imbalances of which can cause hyperglycaemia resulting in symptoms such as tiredness, nausea, increased thirst, and muscle weakness.

Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance

It is normal for the levels of electrolytes to fluctuate. You lose electrolytes in your sweat during exercise, as well as through bouts of diarrhoea and vomiting, where your body has a rapid loss of fluids. If you have a good diet and are replenishing your electrolyte levels in the food you are eating, your electrolyte level should balance itself out. However, if you are missing out on these vital micronutrients, you could have symptoms such as irregular heartbeats, dizziness, weakness, muscle spasm or and excessive tiredness.

Where can I find these electrolytes?

You can replenish your ion levels after a sweaty workout through having a balanced meal with lots of fruit, vegetables, protein, and fibre. The WOW Hydrate Electrolyte drink is a great option to quickly replenish your electrolytes on the go with over 12% of your daily calcium and magnesium requirements as well as 19% of your chloride requirements.