Electrolyte Benefits

The majority of magnesium in our body is stored in our bones.(6) Our blood only contains a small amount. Magnesium is necessary to form our bones and teeth. It also maintains normal nerve and muscle function. (6) Many enzymes in the body depend on magnesium to work properly.  The level of magnesium in the blood depends on how the body obtains magnesium from foods.  The body excretes magnesium in urine and stool.

Phosphorous is involved in forming bones and teeth. It also decides how our body uses carbohydrates and fats. In addition, phosphorous is needed for growing, maintaining, and repairing cells. (7) Phosphorous is also responsible for:

• Kidney Function
• Muscle Contractions
• Normal Heartbeat

Sodium in our bodies is mostly found in our blood and the fluid surrounding cells. Sodium is important because it keeps the fluid in our bodies balanced. In addition, it is involved in keeping our nerves and muscles working properly.  We obtain sodium by consuming food and beverages. We lose it through sweat and urine. Kidneys need to keep an even level of sodium to stay healthy. If sodium consumption and loss are not in balance, the total amount of sodium in our bodies is affected. (9)

Now that we’ve discussed the electrolytes and their responsibilities, let’s discuss the correct daily value you should consume of each electrolyte. Electrolyte benefits are many.

What is the Suggested Intake of Each Electrolyte?

As you probably already know, vitamins and minerals usually have a daily recommended allowance. That basically means there is an ideal amount that you should consume each day. For example: (17)

1. Chloride has a recommended daily allowance of 3.8 grams to 5.8 grams per day. This means you should consume no less than 3.8 grams and no more than 5.8 grams per day.
2. Sodium has a recommended daily allowance of 500 mg to 2300 mg per day. This means you should consume no less than 500 mg and no more than 2300 mg per day.
3. Calcium has a recommended daily allowance of 500 mg to 1200 mg per day. This means you should consume no less than 500 mg and no more than 1200 mg per day.
4. Magnesium has a recommended daily allowance of 310 mg to 420 mg per day. This means you should consume no less than 310 mg and no more than 420 mg per day.
5. Potassium has a recommended daily allowance of 3500 mg to 4700 mg per day. This means you should consume no less than 3500 mg and no more than 4700 mg per day.

Now that you know what the daily recommended amount of each electrolyte is, we will discuss the symptoms of not having enough electrolytes in your body.

Signs of Electrolyte Deficiency

Unfortunately, it is possible to consume too many electrolytes as well. In this section, we will discuss the toxicity symptoms of all 5 electrolytes. Here are the symptoms of toxicity of each of them. (16)

High Sodium:

• Excessive Thirst
• Weakness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Muscle Twitching
• Seizures

High Calcium:

• Excessive Thirst
• Frequent Urination
• Bone Pain
• Muscle Weakness
• Confusion, Lethargy, and Fatigue
• Anxiety and Tiredness
• High Blood Pressure
• Abdominal Pain

High Magnesium

• Lethargy
• Facial Flushing
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Stomach Cramps
• Vomiting
• Depression
• Muscle Weakness

High Potassium

• Tiredness or Weakness.
• Feeling of Numbness or Tingling.
• Nausea or Vomiting.
• Trouble Breathing.
• Chest Pain.
• Palpitations or Irregular Heartbeats.

High Bicarbonate

• Confusion
• Hand Tremors
• Lightheadedness
• Muscle Twitching
• Nausea, Vomiting.
• Numbness or Tingling
• Prolonged Muscle Spasms

When we’re physically active, our bodies produce heat. So we start sweating to prevent overheating. Loss of water in this way can lead to dehydration. If you do overheat, it can result in dizziness, thirst, headaches, nausea, muscle spasms, cramps, fatigue, and disorientation.

The human body can produce up to two liters of sweat in an hour. This amount is highly dependent on environmental conditions and exercise intensity. When you lose too much water, you can significantly affect how the body functions at rest. It can result in a significant decrease in performance during exercise. (16) Now we will discuss the benefits of electrolytes.

Electrolyte Benefits

There are many benefits of electrolytes. In this section, we will discuss each of the electrolytes and their benefits.

Sodium is beneficial because it prevents sunstroke and muscle cramps. It also creates smooth brain functioning and anti-aging properties.

Calcium promotes weight loss, decreases kidney stones and kidney disease. It also balances blood pressure and promotes dental health.

Magnesium has several benefits as well. It relieves insomnia and asthma. It also improves digestion and protects against diabetes. It also promotes bone and heart health.

Potassium helps protect against stress and keeps your heart healthy. It also promotes kidney health and stabilizes blood sugar. Furthermore, it supports brain functioning, muscle development, and nerve function.

Bicarbonate, or baking soda, also has many benefits. It works well as an antacid, toothpaste, and body scrub. It also helps to take the sting out of bug bites, and the pain out of a sunburn. In addition, it helps soothe diaper rash. There are also various ways of household cleaning with baking soda as well.

How to Correct Electrolyte Deficiencies

Now that you know more about symptoms of deficiencies, we can discuss some treatments and expand on the electrolyte benefits.

Electrolyte deficiencies can be corrected in a few different ways. Many will be corrected by simply taking a multivitamin. Another option is to add sea salt to their diet. There are also electrolyte powders and drinks that will benefit you if you have an electrolyte deficiency. Furthermore, others correct their deficiency by adding cream of tarter to their diet.

High-Quality Multivitamin