Electrolytes. You need them. Why?
Electrolytes are essential minerals in your body that give off an electric charge to help the body function. They include:
Calcium
Magnesium
Chloride
Sodium
Bicarbonates
Potassium
Phosphate
Since our bodies are about 60% water, nearly every fluid and cell in our body contains electrolytes. They help to support your digestive system, nervous system, regulate your heart rhythm, and support nerve and muscle function.
Your kidneys and liver, as well as other organs and tissues, are vital in this process, continually moving electrolytes in and out of cells to adjust fluid levels in your body.
Electrolytes
Keep you hydrated
Regulate body fluid levels
Keep the blood pH in normal range
Support muscle contractions, including heartbeat
Transmit messages from the muscles, nerves, and heart
Help blood clotting and bone health
Support the nervous system
Causes of an electrolyte imbalance include
Medications such as diuretics, antibiotics, laxatives, steroids, and chemotherapy drugs
Not eating and drinking enough
Fluid loss from exercise or physical activity
Losing fluids from persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Chronic respiratory diseases such as emphysema
Alcohol and alcoholism
Kidney disease
Diabetes
Eating disorders
Severe burns
9 signs your body needs more electrolytes
Fatigue and low energy
Headaches
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Upset stomach, nausea or GI issues
Irregular or fast heart rate
Mental confusion and irritability
Blood pressure changes
Weak muscles, cramping, or muscle spasms
Numbness or tingling in limbs, fingers and toes
3 ways to get more electrolytes
Eat an abundance and diverse amount wholesome foods found in nature, organic when you can
Add a pinch of salt and/or lemon to your water
Take a raw and unsweetened electrolyte supplement
PRO TIP: When you're thirsty or dehydrated, avoid carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices, and energy drinks like gatorade. These are NOT hydration sources and they often contain added food coloring and sugar which can spike blood sugar levels.
You are better off making your own electrolyte mix. It's simple and cost effective.
DIY Electrolyte Drink
Ingredients
1 ½ -2 cups water
Juice of ½ lemon
¼ tsp real sea salt, Celtic sea salt or Himalayan salt
2 tsp raw local honey
Instructions
Pour ingredients into a mason jar with a lid and shake to combine.
Drink and enjoy daily.
Love, Your Wellness Coach,
Alyssa
P.S. If you need help figuring out where to start with your nutrition, and looking for support with your health concerns and goals, comment or email me at info@ thewellnessheadquarters.com
P.P.S. Listen to this week's new podcast episode 139, "Electrolytes: You Need Them. Why?"
August 23, 2023
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