FOOD+NUTRITION Blair Mize, MS, RDN, CSSD, LDN, CEDRD-S
All About Electrolytes Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that help the body function. While they are used in many metabolic processes and are essential for supporting normal nerve, heart, and brain function—electrolytes are most famous for their role in hydration.
Water + Electrolytes = Hydration Staying hydrated is key for performance and protecting overall health and well-being. Water may quench your thirst but alone is not an effective rehydrator. Sweating, urination, certain medications, and medical conditions all lead to loss of both fluid and electrolytes. Drinking enough water is equally important as taking in adequate electrolytes for hydration.
HYPONATREMIA occurs when the concentration of sodium in your blood is abnormally low. It can stem from drinking too much water, causing the sodium in your body to become diluted. Symptoms: Nausea and vomiting, headache, confusion, loss of energy, fatigue, restlessness and irritability, muscle weakness, spasms/cramps, seizures, coma.
DEHYDRATION occurs when your body uses or loses more fluid than you take in. Symptoms: extreme thirst, muscle cramps/spasms, weakness, unusual fatigue, light-headedness, headache, dark urine, dry mouth, infrequent urination, unusually rapid heart rate, numbness, confusion, change in blood pressure, seizure
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Blair Mize, MS, RDN, CSSD, LDN, CEDRD-S is co-owner of Memphis Nutrition Group, a nutrition and lifestyle counseling practice offering in-person and virtual nutrition therapy specializing in a non-diet, weight-neutral approach. The Registered Dietitians at Memphis Nutrition Group help individuals reconnect with their bodies, find confidence and clarity in their everyday choices, and create a peaceful, balanced approach to food that tastes good and feels even better. Contact Memphis Nutrition Group at 901.343.6146 or visit MemphisNutritionGroup.com for more information.
