We often talk about electrolytes in iPRO’s range of healthy hydration drinks. We even gave the 101 on them in this blog. But why do we really need electrolytes? To find out, let’s break down the science behind how they work and their vital role in maintaining balanced hydration levels.

First, why do we need electrolytes?

Electrolytes are essential minerals that play a vital role in regulating hydration in our bodies. They include sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, each serving unique functions to ensure our cells and muscles work properly. Let's explore the significance of each electrolyte:

Sodium: a positive charge that helps balance fluids inside and around our cells. It makes sure cells get enough water and nutrients to stay healthy.

Potassium: a positive charge inside cells and a negative charge outside. This special setup is vital for muscle contractions, nerve signals, and even your heart's rhythm.

Magnesium: helps with energy production, keeps muscles moving smoothly, and even helps make new DNA. It also helps regulate calcium, another crucial mineral.

Calcium: famous for maintaining strong bones, but it helps also helps with muscle contraction, allows nerves to send messages, and is involved in the process of blood clotting when needed.

What does ‘positively charged’ mean?

Simply put, positively charged means these minerals have a special electric charge in our body's fluids. Electrolytes like sodium and potassium with positive charges are crucial for balancing the fluids in our bodies. They attract and work together with negatively charged particles, bringing water into cells and keeping us hydrated.

How the body absorbs electrolytes

The process of electrolyte absorption is fairly straightforward. As we consume food and beverages, our digestive system gets to work to extract these minerals. Subsequently, our intestines take over, absorbing electrolytes and distributing them throughout the body.

Several factors influence how effectively our bodies absorb electrolytes. Staying well-hydrated is fundamental, and the foods we choose can also impact absorption. But it’s important to note that certain medical conditions may influence this process, such as digestive disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Electrolytes and fluid balance

Electrolytes play a crucial role in regulating fluid balance within and outside our cells. As we said, sodium attracts and holds water, which helps to maintain the right amount of fluid in our tissues. And potassium helps to create pathways inside our cells which allow nerves to send messages and muscles to move correctly.

How we run, walk, or any type of movement is powered by the exchange of electrolytes both inside and outside cells. The flow of ions (charged particles) allows nerves to send signals and muscles to move properly. Having enough electrolytes in our bodies ensures smooth communication between our nerves and muscles.

What causes electrolyte imbalance?

There are a few things that can cause an electrolyte imbalance, like not eating a balanced diet, not drinking enough water, or taking certain medications. When this happens, it can lead to a range of different symptoms, depending on which electrolyte is affected.

For example, if our sodium levels aren’t right, it can cause serious symptoms like confusion and seizures. On the other hand, if our potassium levels are too low, we might experience muscle weakness, cramping, or an irregular heartbeat.

And if our magnesium levels are imbalanced, we might feel muscle spasms, fatigue, or weakness. Calcium imbalances can also cause issues with our bones, muscle weakness, and seizures.

Electrolyte needs vary by person

Various life stages and conditions may affect electrolyte needs. For instance, proper hydration is vital for growing children, who may have unique electrolyte requirements during developmental phases. But as we age, our bodies require more attention to hydration and electrolyte intake to support overall health and mobility. Pregnant women have increased fluid needs and require enough electrolytes to support both their own health and their growing baby.

Why you should start drinking iPRO Hydrate

When it comes to recharging your electrolytes, you need to be mindful of diuretic ingredients like sugar and caffeine. Opting for drinks like iPRO Hydrate, which is low in sugar and caffeine-free, is a better choice to support hydration and electrolyte equilibrium.

iPRO Hydrate is a hydration drink supercharged with electrolytes and specially crafted to hydrate and revitalise the body. It's naturally sweetened with Stevia and rich in vitamin C and metabolism-boosting vitamins B5, B6, B7, and B12.

You can purchase the entire range endorsed by parkrun here.