Electrolytes are critical for the human body's proper and healthy functioning. The body uses electrolytes to help with muscle and neuron function, acidity control and hydration. On the flip side, electrolyte deficiency or imbalance can be detrimental to your health.
Potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, phosphate, bicarbonate, and chloride are the most prevalent and important electrolytes present in the body (1) and many people have potassium, magnesium, and sodium deficiencies. Have you ever gotten a headache following a long and sweaty workout or felt exhausted and fatigued on a hot summer day? Lethargy, confusion, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, irregular pulse, exhaustion, shortness of breath and blood pressure abnormalities are all indicators of a significant electrolyte imbalance. No fun!
So, what are the benefits of electrolytes?
Science has proven that electrolytes offer significant benefits that are essential for fitness and general health. Some of the proven benefits of electrolytes are:
Electrolytes for fitness and performance
Given the role they play in muscle contraction and recovery, electrolytes play a significant role in your fitness endeavors.
Normal muscular contractions require electrolytes, with the principal electrolytes required for muscular contraction being calcium and magnesium (2). Muscle contraction is essential in our workouts. This isn't simply true for your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. It is also necessary for another important muscle in your body: the heart. For this reason, when magnesium levels in your body are low, you will notice an irregular or fast heartbeat.
Research also shows that consuming electrolytes will decrease muscle cramping and tension (3). Electrolytes will help minimize muscular cramps and spasms, allowing you hit your training full force.
Athletes lose electrolytes and fluids through sweat while training, which can lead to an electrolyte imbalance. Water alone can assist in avoiding overheating, but it won't guard against electrolyte imbalances, which can affect performance. Electrolyte supplements are frequently used by athletes who engage in regular strenuous activities. Fluids containing a combination of electrolytes and water are frequently recommended by sports organizations during, before, and after exercise to promote hydration, replenish sweat losses, avoid dehydration, and reduce the risk of medical issues (4).
Electrolytes for sleep
Electrolytes can enhance the quality of your sleep. When you're well-hydrated, the body functions optimally, allowing you to begin your day feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.
Electrolytes may also help to relieve muscle cramps and discomfort (3) when you sleep, making them a must-have for anybody who has trouble sleeping. To maximize the advantages of electrolytes for sleep, drink them about one hour before bedtime so your body gets enough time to absorb the minerals.
Final Thought
There you have it! Electrolyte supplementation is beneficial to athletes and Cerus has blended creatine and electrolytes in our Creatine+Hydrate product so you not only get muscle-building but also hydration benefits. It’s a must-have for every gym goer.
References
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