The Human Body, Electrolytes & Exercise
Have you ever suffered of muscle cramping or fatigue during or after exercising? This can be a sign that you body is lacking the electrolytes it needs.
Electrolytes replaces the minerals lost during exercising and any form of sport.
What Are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are essential minerals such as, magnesium, sodium, potassium, calcium and phosphorus. The most common ones are potassium, sodium and chloride. The following electrolytes are key components for the kidney function: magnesium, phosphorus, bicarbonate. One has to therefore be sure to always hydrate.
Does electrolytes help with exercise?
Yes, electrolytes actually regulates the fluid balance in our body, thereby keeping our muscles, nerves and heart functioning and most of the time prevents the onset of cramps. Here are some possible signs of electrolyte imbalances you should be aware of:
- Muscles twitching
- Cramping
- Headaches,
- Dizziness,
- Irregular heartbeats,
- Being unable to run / walk the distance at a good pace
- Fatigue sets in.
Sources of electrolytes
Hydrating with water and keeping to a healthy diet is good enough for the healthy individual. For the active person ( sportsmen/women ) consuming foods and fluids which contains electrolytes is beneficial for the body.
What can be added to water:
- Raw honey
- Ginger
- Lemon
- Additionally Coconut water as well
Whole foods containing natural electrolytes:
- Nuts: Such as walnuts, almonds, hazel nuts, cashew nuts is an example of best nuts needed for an active lifestyle.
- Seeds: Such as pumpkin, chia, flax, sesame, hemp, sunflower seeds.
- Fruit: Such as oranges, slices of watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, apples, bananas.
- Vegetables: Such as sweet potato is a powerhouse of magnesium.
These contains the essential electrolytes which our bodies need.
Electrolytes before or during a workout?
Drinking water or electrolytes at least one hour before the exercise session, hydrates the body preparing it for the session.
Electrolytes are vital for keeping the body hydrated, our muscles working properly, the heart beating regularly, and for maintaining fluid balance.
It is important to stay hydrated while exercising and also to refuel post exercise, replacing the loss of electrolytes.