Electrolyte Balance

Electrolyte balance ensures the proper inflow of nutrients and proper outflow of toxins from body cells. It also maintains the body’s pH levels; regulates the amount of water in the body; and helps the brain, heart, nerves, and muscles to function properly. Electrolytes are minerals in the human body that have an electric charge. They are retrieved from the foods people eat and the fluids people drink. Examples of electrolytes are chlorine, phosphate, sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Electrolyte balance can be measured by the amount of water in the body. Both dehydration and overhydration indicate a compromised electrolyte balance, which may cause some instability in the major organs.  If, for instance, a child suffers from diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating, he or she should get medical attention because they have an electrolyte imbalance that is causing the body to malfunction.