Introduction to an Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolytes are salts that are important for the physiological functioning of the human body. Nearly half of your energy at rest is spent maintaining the balance of electrolytes in your body. Organs in your body could not function without the proper balance of electrolytes. If you don't replenish electrolytes as they are lost, then you could develop an electrolyte imbalance.

Electrolyte Function

• The major electrolytes in the body are sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. The proper balance of water and electrolytes in the body is important for biochemical reactions. Electrolytes are necessary for the brain to send electrical signals, the heart to contract and muscles to function without cramping.

Brain Function

• Brain cells, or neurons, communicate with each other using electrical and chemical signals. When a chemical signal called a neurotransmitter stimulates a neuron, the neuron allows electrolytes to rush in, generating an electrical signal. This electrical signal -- called an action potential -- spreads throughout the neuron, causing neurotransmitters to be released onto nearby cells. The action potential depends on sodium entering and potassium leaving the cell. Magnesium is important for brain signals involved in learning and memory. Imbalances in these electrolytes can cause the brain to function abnormally.

Heart Function

• When the heart beats, calcium enters cells in the heart, causing the heart muscles to contract. The timing of the heartbeat also depends on electrical signals from nerves stimulating heart muscles to beat in a normal rhythm. High or low potassium levels in the blood can drastically change the heart rate.

Muscle Function

• Similar to muscles in the heart, skeletal muscles require calcium to contract and sodium and potassium for nerves controlling the muscles to function. When electrolytes are imbalanced, you may experience muscle weakness, cramps, loss of coordination and shaking. Water can be lost from the muscles with electrolytes, causing muscles to shrink and recovery from exercise to be inhibited.

Other Functions

• The proper balance of electrolytes is important for other functions in the body including regulating acidity, blood pressure and blood volume.

Electrolyte Loss

• Electrolytes can be lost in the sweat, urine or solid waste. Kidney disease, medications such as diuretics, intense activity, hot environments and very high water intake can all increase the rate of loss. It is important to eat food high in electrolytes such as fruits and vegetables or use an electrolyte supplement such as coconut water or pills containing minerals.