Warmer days are coming.
This means you need to be sure you’re staying hydrated.
Our bodies require electrolytes to stay hydrated and nourished.
Why, you ask?
Electrolytes maintain and repair all our tissues, utilization of amino acids, and physical and neurological functions.
They play a special role in how our muscles and nerves contract and expand, and how quickly our wounds heal.
They are essential for growth and development of bones and organs.
How are electrolytes regulated?
Our kidneys exchange electrolytes and water from the blood.
The gastrointestinal system secretes chloride ions for electrolyte stability.
The heart and vascular system transport electrolytes throughout our body.
Pretty cool, huh? I think so, too!
Signs of electrolyte imbalance include: nausea, lethargy, fluid retention, confusion or sudden change in behavior, severe muscle weakness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, seizures or chest pains.
Balance your electrolytes with these 5 tips:
1. Eat a balanced diet full of fresh produce, lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to give you all the nutrients you need to keep your body in balance.
2. When cooking your own food, replace table salt with sea salt or Himalayan salt which are full of important minerals.
3. Drink lots of water – this keeps your metabolism up and helps your digestive system.
4. After a workout, replenish your electrolytes with potassium and sodium. Papaya, broth, milk, pickles, sweet potatoes, and coconut water have these.
5. Take an Epsom salt bath, it is enriched with magnesium. Our bodies actually absorb magnesium better through skin than by ingesting it.
As always, make sure to check with your physician before making nutritional changes.
Do you have a health question you’d like me to write about? Email me at jewel.lexchron@gmail.com .