Tag Archives: Electrolyte Synergy™ by Designs for Health

The Importance of Electrolyte Balance

ElectrolytesJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Unless you are an athlete, weekend warrior or sports enthusiast, the importance of electrolytes to the body’s overall healthy functioning may not be foremost on your mind. However, the maintenance of proper electrolyte balance is not just for athletes, as all bodily cells rely on electrolytes to control cell membrane stability, hydration and pH balance regulation. Healthy individuals who are consuming an electrolyte-rich diet, as well as properly hydrating, are the most likely to maintain balanced levels of electrolytes. Electrolytes allow for cellular communication and carry the electrical charges necessary for the nerve impulses that stimulate muscle contractions, including the steady life-supportive heartbeat. Electrolytes are vital for adequate function of the nervous, cardiac, digestive and muscular systems, as well as for a stable, balanced internal environment, or homeostasis.

Disturbances in electrolyte balance can interfere with bodily functions and have a harmful effect on health. Imbalances are often a result of body fluid loss, or dehydration, due to prolonged sweating, symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea, as well as certain medications. If you are an avid exerciser, get into the habit of drinking water in the hours before, during and after physical activity. To rehydrate after exercise, drink water relatively slowly. Drinking a lot of water quickly results in increased urination, which can actually slow the rehydration process. For electrolyte loss due to an acute intestinal illness, high outdoor temperature, intense exercise or strenuous physical activity, a drink containing electrolytes will help rehydrate the body more quickly than water alone.

The electrolytes most important to healthy function include sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, bicarbonate, phosphate and magnesium. These and other essential minerals dissolve in fluid and separate into positively and negatively charged ions that perform a variety of metabolic functions. Some assist in the transmission of electrical impulses along cell membranes in neurons and muscles. Others help to stabilize protein structures in enzymes.  Still others aid in endocrine hormone secretion. All ions present in plasma contribute to equalizing the movement of water between cells and their environment. Without electrolytes, cells could not communicate or perform essential functions.

Electrolyte concentrations are tightly regulated by the kidneys, which filter water and electrolytes from the blood, some of which is returned and the rest secreted in urine. Electrolyte balance whether too high or too low can result in symptoms of heart rhythm disturbances, such as an irregular or quickened heartbeat, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, muscle spasms, intestinal issues and seizures. If electrolyte balance is disturbed, disorders including high or low blood pressure can develop. Electrolyte disorders, commonly found in individuals who have abnormal kidney function, adrenal insufficiency or diabetes insipidus, require professional treatment.

If you’re feeling faint after a workout, an imbalance could be the underlying cause. A well-managed diet that includes fruits and vegetables, dairy, beans and whole grain breads, as well consuming a moderate amount of an electrolyte-infused drink after exercise or physical exertion can help to limit the impact of losing electrolytes though perspiration or illness. High in potassium, coconut water is helpful as well, especially for older adults who may be taking medications that reduce potassium concentrations in the blood. To aid electrolyte balance, stay well hydrated and include foods that are good sources of electrolytes, such as watermelon, pomegranates, oranges, cucumber, tart cherries, bananas, beets, strawberries, celery, lemons and mangoes.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality supplements for electrolyte replenishment:

Electrolyte/Energy...Electrolyte/Energy Formula by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic powdered formula provides sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium and magnesium that replenish electrolytes lost during exercise to support hydration, as well as promote stamina during strenuous or prolonged exercise. Additional ingredients include vitamin C to enhance tissue recovery and l-tyrosine to support mental focus and physical endurance. For those on the go, this formula is also available in convenient Single Serving Stick Packs. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegan formulation.

Ultima Replenisher...Ultima Replenisher™ Balanced Electrolyte Powder: Available in a variety of natural fruit flavors, this popular product provides a blend of six electrolytes and supportive minerals that work synergistically to support complete hydration without stomach upset. Free of gluten, sugar, caffeine, artificial flavors and artificial colors. Non-GMO vegan formulation.

Ultima Replenisher...Ultima Replenisher™ Balanced Electrolyte Powder Drink Variety Stick Packs: For on-the-go hydration, these single serve stick packs contain a perfect balance of six electrolytes plus synergistic minerals to support optimal hydration. Pack contains 20 sticks of assorted natural fruit flavors. Free of gluten, sugar, caffeine, artificial flavors and artificial colors. Non-GMO vegan formulation.

Electrolyte SynergyElectrolyte Synergy™ By Designs for Health®: This complete and balanced powdered electrolyte professional formula is designed to promote optimal hydration, especially after excessive perspiration. Ingredients include potassium, sodium, chloride and magnesium blended with synergistic compounds quercetin, citrus bioflavonoids and vitamin C. Natural citrus flavor, stevia sweetened. Gluten free.

References:
26.3 Electrolyte Balance. http://library.open.oregonstate.edu/aandp/chapter/26-3-electrolyte-balance/
Everything you need to know about electrolytes. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153188.php
All About Electrolyte Disorders. https://www.healthline.com/health/electrolyte-disorders
Electrolytes: Definition, Functions, Imbalance and Sources. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/electrolytes

Shining the Light on Electrolytes

electrolytesJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN
 

Electrolytes. Most of us have heard of them. But what are they and why is it so important to keep them balanced? Electrolytes are formed when minerals or salts dissolve in fluid, causing them to separate into positively and negatively charged ions, thereby creating an electrically conductive solution. As a result of their ability to conduct electrical charges, electrolytes are able to regulate fluid distribution in the body, a very important role in our superhighway of cells, tissues, organs and fluid that thrive in homeostasis. In order to function normally, the body must maintain constant fluid levels in the blood, the cells and the areas around the cells. Electrolytes regulate heart beat, nerve and muscle function, blood volume and pH levels, blood pressure, and our body’s hydration level.

Electrolyte levels are kept constant by the kidneys and by the release of certain adrenal and kidney hormones. Specialized kidney cells monitor the amounts of sodium, potassium and water in the blood stream, while these specific hormones are released to keep electrolyte balance within the narrow range of normal limits. To maintain fluid balance, the body actively moves electrolytes in and out of cells. Electrolytes can become imbalanced when one loses a large amount of fluid quickly. This can occur as result of illness, disease, excessive sweating, serious injuries and dehydration or over-hydration. The most common imbalances are excessive or insufficient levels of sodium, magnesium or potassium.

When electrolyte balance is disturbed, disorders may develop. Signs may include irregular heartbeat, blood pressure changes, muscle spasms, convulsions, fatigue or weakness. Since electrolyte balance is basically determined by our food and water consumption, proper nutrition is essential. A well-balanced diet will generally supply an adequate amount of electrolytes. Colorful fruits and vegetables are naturally high in electrolytes, especially calcium, potassium, sodium and magnesium. Electrolytes found in our bodies include sodium, potassium, calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium, chloride, hydrogen phosphate and hydrogen carbonate and all have specific roles.  

Sodium – Most often found in the blood plasma, sodium plays a significant role in water level regulation and balance in the body. So much so that wherever sodium goes, water follows. The kidneys help maintain balance by filtering excess sodium from the blood and adjusting the amount excreted in urine. Most of us get more than enough sodium from added salts in our diets. Too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and to fluid buildup in those who have less than optimal organ function.

Potassium – Found concentrated within the cells, potassium is essential for the electrical impulses that allow for brain and muscle function. Potassium aids in muscle building, helps control pH balance and is necessary for the electrical activity of the heart. Too little potassium can cause weak muscles and abnormal heart beat. Too much can result in poor kidney function.

Calcium – Necessary to promote strong bones and teeth, calcium aids communication between the brain and the body. It regulates muscle contraction including heart beat and aids normal blood clotting. Calcium also plays a role in hormone and enzyme release. Signs of deficiency can include muscle cramps, minor tingling or numbness in the fingers, lethargy and osteoporosis. Excessive calcium can result in loss of appetite, kidney toxicity and irregular heartbeat.

Magnesium – Required for over 300 metabolic processes, magnesium aids in muscle contraction and relaxation, maintains energy levels and sustains heart and blood vessel health. Together with calcium, magnesium supports healthy bones and helps maintain healthy blood pressure. Symptoms of deficiency may include insomnia, constipation, high blood pressure, fatigue or muscle spasms. While it’s unusual to have excess magnesium, symptoms can include muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, very low blood pressure or breathing difficulties.

Bicarbonate – This important electrolyte keeps the acid-base levels of the body in balance. Bicarbonate aids in buffering the acids that build up in the body as normal byproducts of metabolism. A low blood level of bicarbonate can result in metabolic acidosis, which means the body is too acidic. A high blood level indicates metabolic alkalosis, in which the body is too alkaline. When the body is too acidic, proper digestion is negatively affected and may result in lowered immune function, hormonal imbalances, and poor nutrient absorption. Normal body pH is slightly alkaline. The body makes constant adjustments in tissue and fluid pH in order to maintain homeostasis.

Maintaining electrolyte balance is one more good reason to eat a healthy, natural diet. Eating a variety of colorful vegetables and fruits and drinking plenty of water daily will aid the body in maintaining homeostasis and functioning properly. Sports drinks are great for replacing electrolytes after a tough workout, but remember they do contain a fair amount of sugar. Don’t drink them as a casual beverage, rather save them for rehydration after a minimum of one hour of physical activity, to rehydrate during illness or anytime you have excessive perspiration. Remember to rehydrate with water according to your thirst and consider sports drinks during high-intensity and long-duration exercise.  

Great products for rehydration and electrolyte replacement include:

Endura Lemon-Lime
 Endura® Lemon Lime by Metagenics provides a unique blend of electrolyte minerals formulated to provide energy and promote electrolyte absorption. This gluten free, vegetarian, Non-GMO formulation is naturally flavored and contains no artificial sweeteners. Also available in natural orange flavor.
 
 
 
Electrolyte Synergy
Electrolyte Synergy™ by Designs for Health provides a complete, balanced electrolyte formula to aid in the promotion of optimal hydration, exercise recovery and energy production.
 
 
Electro-pH Complex (K-86)
 
Electro-pH™ Complex (K-86) by Apex Energetics provides key minerals for fluid electrolyte balance support. Natural vanilla flavor.
 
 
 
Electrolyte/Energy Formula
 
Electrolyte/Energy Formula by Pure Encapsulations helps to replenish electrolytes lost during exertion, aids in retaining hydration and supports physical and mental stamina. Natural lemon-lime flavor.
 
 
 
References:
Electrolytes. http://www.emedicinehealth.com/electrolytes/page11_em.htm#bicarbonate_hco3
What are electrolytes?
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153188.php
Electrolytes.
http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm
What Are Body Electrolytes.
http://www.disabled-world.com/health/electrolytes.php