Functions of Major Nutrient Electrolytes

Sodium- plays a role in maintenance of osmotic pressure of extracellular fluid and movement of fluid from one compartment to another; gastrointestinal absorption of specific sugars and proteins; normal muscle activity and function as well as cell permeability.

Potassium- plays a role in normal excitability of nervous tissue and the ability of muscular contraction, especially cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscles; intracellular osmotic pressure and ionic balance; prevention of heat cramps.

Phosphates- components of high energy compounds manufactured by the body. Phosphates are component parts of buffer systems which help maintain normal acid balance. They are also involve in nerve tissue metabolism and nucleic acid chemistry. Phosphates are also important in the ineralization of bones and teeth.

Calcium and Magnesium- are nutrient electrolytes which facilitate the passage of the primary electrolytes(potassium and sodium) to the muscle cell.

What Constitutes a "Good" Electrolyte Drink?

The constituents of a "good" electrolyte drink need to be absorbed by the body as quickly as possible. In other words, restoration of the body to its proper equilibrium is necessary for the individual to maintain an optimum level of performance.

This is done first by a proper energy source. Electrolyte drinks provide this source in the form of carbohydrates (i.e.,glucose and fructose). In keeping with the definition of a "good" electrolyte drink, sucrose is not the preferred source of energy because it is not readily absorbed by the body as are glucose and fructose.

In reality, sucrose makes the body work that much harder because the pancreas must first secrete insulin in order to convert the sucrose into a usable form of food energy for the body.

The last thing a person wants to do is tax the body when it is in an already depleted state. Electrolyte drinks should also have a balanced level of sodium, potassium, phosphates and other important mineral salts.

An effective electrolyte drink should not contain excessive amounts of sodium because this mineral is readily available in virtually most foods that we consume and the role of excessive levels of dietary sodium in hypertension and has been firmly established. It has been documented that the average adult consumes approximately 6,000 mg. of sodium per day. The minimum daily sodium need, with no excess losses, is only 2,000 mg.

A well balanced electrolyte drink will also contain a reasonable level of potassium, a mineral whose importance has been virtually ignored by the industry.

Choices Involved In Coping With Electrolyte Loss-

Victims of electrolyte loss dehydration are usually confronted with three choices in their efforts to deal with symptoms of this malady:

1 - Water

2 - Soft Drinks

3 - Electrolyte Drinks.

Electrolytes or Water?