Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolytes play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis (balance) within the body. They help distribute fluids inside and outside the cells to ensure an appropriate water balance. Electrolytes also help to regulate the acid-base balance, myocardial and neurological function and help to deliver oxygen to our cells. Excessive losses of fluid and electrolytes upset these balances. Thus, electrolytes are very important to support all life processes.

Normally, the body defends itself successfully against fluid and electrolyte imbalances. The most serious electrolyte disturbances involve abnormalities in the levels of sodium, potassium, and/or calcium. Severe and prolonged vomiting and diarrhea, heavy sweating, burns, and traumatic wounds may incur great fluid and electrolyte losses. In these cases, medical emergency is needed.

Sodium and chloride are the first electrolytes to be lost when fluid is lost by sweating, bleeding, or excretion. It is no coincidence that after sweating excessively or losing fluid in other ways, a person craves salty foods and refreshing drinks. When fluid is lost by vomiting or diarrhea, sodium is lost indiscriminately. When too much water is lost from the body and not replaced, dehydration develops. Drinking water alone won’t restore electrolyte balance. In many cases, people can replace the fluids and minerals lost in sweat or in a temporary bout of diarrhea by drinking plain cool water and eating regular foods. In some cases, however, demand rapid replacement of fluids and electrolytes.

Potassium, like sodium and chloride, is an electrolyte that plays an important role in maintaining fluid balance. Potassium assists in nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction. Controlling potassium distribution in the body is of high priority for the body because it affects many aspects of haemostasis, including steady heartbeat. Potassium is abundant in all kinds of fresh food such as milk, fruit, vegetables, grains and legumes. Try to have at least 5 – 6 serving of vegetables and fruit daily.

Follow a healthy balanced diet which consists of a variety of foods to ensure you get ALL the nutrients and energy your body needs. The basis of your diet should consist of fresh fruit and vegetables, beans, whole grains and fish. If these foods feature in every meal, you will definitely benefit to achieve and maintain optimal health. Drink at least 6 – 8 glasses of water a day to prevent dehydration. When you are physically active and doing events lasting more than one hour, you may need sport drinks which can help to replace fluids and electrolytes.

   Article written by Charne Smit ((RD) SA  - Dieticians at work