Activating optimal health means understanding the role that minerals play in the function of our bodies! Minerals are connected to so many important health markers;
Strong bones, nervous system function, heart health (blood pressure) and muscle health – just to list a few!!
As a collective the common minerals found in the body are known as electrolytes. These include:
Sodium
Potassium
Magnesium
Calcium
Phosphate
Chloride
Bicarbonate
Electrolytes are substances in our body that are used for processes, such as muscle contractions, nervous system impulses, and regulating overall hydration and pH levels. They are, literally, electrical particles that carry either a positive or negative charge. They travel through your bloodstream and are excreted through your sweat and urine. So frequent replenishment of electrolytes is required.
You can GET STARTED on electrolyte inclusion by adding some salt to water, salt containing magnesium, calcium and potassium and can help replace important minerals lost through sweat.
Helpful foods that act as electrolyte replacement
Yes the nutrition we consume plays a key role in electrolyte maintenance in our body! Common high electrolyte foods include: avocado, coconut, greens, seeds and berries.
Calcium: leafy greens, almonds, sardines, yogurt, kefir, raw milk, cheese
Sodium: pickles, olives, cottage cheese
Chloride: tomatoes, celery, olives, seaweed
Phosphorus: nuts, legumes, seeds, dairy, poultry, fish, beef
Magnesium: nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, avocados, beans
Potassium: spinach, beans, lentils, beans, sweet potatoes, bananas
Why would it be beneficial to take an electrolyte supplement?
Apart from starting with additional salt inclusion and focusing on dietary changes, a full spectrum electrolyte can even more more helpful if facing the following symptoms:
Headaches
Fatigue
Confusion
Mood changes
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Stomach pain
Irregular heartbeat
Numbness
Constipation
Frequent urination
Dry mouth
Persistent stress/ burn out
Heart related issues
Kidney disease
Liver issues
Dehydration
SEE SUPPLEMENTATION OPTIONS HERE
SOME… Head-to-Toe Benefits of Electrolytes
FOR BETTER SLEEP
Quality sleep is another major health benefit of electrolytes. For example, calcium helps the brain transform tryptophan into the sleep hormone melatonin.
Researchers also noticed increased levels of sleep hormones and lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Naturally, better sleep leads to less daytime fatigue, enhanced focus, and more productive days. Dang, these electrolyte benefits are really stacking up! The more rested you are, the better you perform.
STRENGTHEN IMMUNE SYSTEM
Electrolytes have a close relationship with the immune system. Magnesium, for example helps the body fight inflammation working together, electrolytes like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium control what’s allowed to enter the cell. They promote healthy apoptosis: the process the body uses to destroy cells before they have a chance to mutate.
STABLISE BLOOD SUGAR
According to recent research, type 2 diabetes may be linked to low potassium and contribute to high levels of insulin and glucose, both of which are signs of diabetes. However, more research needs to be conducted in order to determine if dietary potassium supplements can reduce the risk of diabetes. With that said, potassium and other electrolytes can be part of a diabetes prevention plan, along with avoiding sugar and getting enough exercise.
SUPPORTS HEART HEALTH
Electrolyte levels have a direct impact on the health of your ticker. For starters, the combination of too little potassium and too much sodium is associated with high blood pressure. Magnesium and calcium also help support proper blood pressure. Plus, magnesium reduces inflammation, prevents arteries from becoming clogged, and normalizes irregular heartbeats.
TREATS HEADACHES
When headaches are caused by dehydration, electrolytes can help. Magnesium and sodium play an especially important role in fighting dehydration headaches. When they get out of balance, it can lead to issues like headaches and fatigue. Most people have too much sodium and not enough magnesium in their diet. Magnesium deficiency can trigger headaches by:
Altering neurotransmitters
Increasing anxiety
Affecting blood pressure
The good news is that electrolyte supplements can be an easy and affordable way to prevent dehydration and a range of other issues!
