The role of electrolytes in proper body hydration

We are in the heart of summer and high temperatures require increased consumption of fluids and water for proper hydration of the body.
Water has been associated with the existence of life since it occupies 60% of the body's composition. The vital functions of the body such as maintaining a constant temperature, transporting nutrients, digesting food, eliminating toxins from the body are carried out to a large extent by the existence of water. For this reason, it is important to consume an adequate amount of water daily, which is approximately 8 glasses or 2 liters of water. This amount changes depending on the season, gender and physical activity.

Another factor that contributes significantly to the ideal hydration of the body are electrolytes. Electrolytes are chemical compounds and belong to a class of metals that carry electricity when dissolved in water. They are found wherever there is water, in the intracellular and extracellular fluid, in the blood and in the rest of the body's fluids. Maintaining their balance is important, as these elements regulate the levels of body fluids.

The main electrolytes are: Sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, chlorine, magnesium.
Sodium: It is the main component of extracellular fluid and is key to the movement of fluids in and out of the cell. It is found in pancreatic juices, tears, bile, and sweat. It helps eliminate CO2, regulates blood pressure, and carries the electrochemical signal for muscle contraction and nerve function.
Potassium: It is the main component of intracellular fluid and is essential for the contraction of smooth muscle fibers. The difference in potassium - sodium concentration across the cell membrane regulates blood pressure. It plays an important role in brain functions such as learning and good memory.
Calcium: It is an essential element of cellular structure and necessary for blood clotting, hormone function, muscle contraction, activates enzyme production and nerve transmission.
Phosphorus: It is found in muscle tissue and stored in bones. It transports nutrients into the cell while also contributing to its detoxification by eliminating waste material. It also contributes to the synthesis of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. In addition to skeletal health, it enhances the function of the brain, kidneys and heart.
Chlorine: It is found in the extracellular fluid and often interacts with sodium. It is an essential electrolyte regulating osmotic pressure and is the key component for the creation of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Magnesium: Found in bones and muscle tissue and essential for enzyme production. It regulates blood sugar levels, improves menstrual pain, mood, and contributes to restful sleep.

When our body takes in less fluids or water than it needs, or excretes more than it takes in, dehydration occurs, a condition that disrupts the electrolytes and acid-base function of the entire body. The replenishment of electrolytes in tablets or powder is considered necessary when there is increased sweating, increased temperature in the natural environment, in cases of diarrhea and gastritis. In addition to regulating body fluids, the balance of electrolytes is important for the transfer of energy and the daily needs of the muscular and nervous system.
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