What Are 4 Signs of an Electrolyte Imbalance?
Everyone knows that a healthy diet, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep are key for supporting and protecting physical health. But did you know that balanced electrolyte levels also have a huge role in your overall health? An electrolyte imbalance can cause all sorts of health problems, ranging from mild muscle cramps to serious issues like coma.
So how do you know if you have an electrolyte imbalance? And what can you do to fix it? Below you’ll find everything you need to know about electrolytes. There’s also information about the best electrolyte drink mixes that help to keep levels balanced.
- Elm & Rye Electrolyte Mix
- DripDrop Electrolyte Drink Mix
- Cymbiotika Pure Hydration
- Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Drink Mix
- LMNT Recharge Electrolyte Drink Mix
- Vitalyte Electrolyte Replacement Drink Mix
What Are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are minerals that are needed for basic life functioning. They have various crucial roles in varying chemical reactions, including balancing the amount of water in the body, keeping blood pressure stable, and moving waste out of the cells.
There are seven electrolytes, including
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Phosphate
- Chloride
- Bicarbonate
Four Signs of an Electrolyte Imbalance
There are many different things that can cause an electrolyte imbalance. Here are four common signs that your body is lacking one or more of these crucial minerals.
- Muscle cramps. Low potassium and magnesium levels can cause the muscles to tense up and spasm. Your muscles may also feel weak. Both of these electrolytes are needed for proper muscle function as well as nerve signaling.
- Fatigue. An electrolyte balance can also cause fatigue, mental fog, and general weakness. Electrolytes don't provide energy, as energy comes from proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. However, electrolytes have a key role in converting and transporting it. If you're fatigued, chances are that you need to increase your sodium intake.
- Changes in blood pressure. Potassium and sodium help the body to regulate blood pressure. An imbalance in either or both of these minerals can cause either low or high blood pressure. Changes in blood pressure can cause headaches, dizziness, and possibly fainting.
- Irregular heartbeat. Low potassium or magnesium levels can cause the heart to beat irregularly. Your heart may beat faster than normal or you may have palpitations. If left untreated, this symptom could be deadly.
If you experience any of these symptoms, take action immediately. Drinking an electrolyte drink can stabilize levels in your body and ease side effects. If symptoms don’t subside, seek medical care.
Best Electrolyte Powders to Fix an Electrolyte Imbalance
Whether you’re at home, at the gym, or on-the-go, having an electrolyte powder drink mix handy could be a lifesaver. If you’re feeling fatigued or dealing with painful muscle cramps, mixing one of these powdered into a bottle of water can help you start to feel better.
Here are the top rated electrolyte drink mixes to consider buying.
1. Elm & Rye Electrolyte Mix
Rehydration has never been easier. Elm & Rye Electrolyte Mix is formulated with potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin C to support fluid levels, muscle function, and protein synthesis. This electrolyte supplement comes in three great tasting flavors: watermelon, lemon lime, and strawberry kiwi. It’s perfect for using at the gym or when you’re on-the-go.
2. DripDrop Electrolyte Drink Mix
DripDrop Electrolyte Drink Mix offers fast rehydration when it’s needed the most. This non-GMO drink mix is made without any artificial preservatives. It comes in many different thirst-quenching flavors, including fruit punch, concord grape, and berry.
3. Cymbiotika Pure Hydration
Cymbiotika Pure Hydration does more than improve hydration and balance electrolyte levels. This drink mix also improves recovery and cellular hydration. It features key compounds like potassium, sodium, and vitamin C. It comes in flavors like lychee, lemon citrus, and watermelon.
4. Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Drink Mix
One stick of Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Drink Mix hydrates better than water alone. This fast-acting supplement is made with key electrolytes as well as five essential vitamins. It comes in tasty flavors like pina colada, lemon lime, and acai berry.
5. LMNT Recharge Electrolyte Drink Mix
Rehydrate without any sugar or gluten with LMNT Recharge Electrolyte Drink Mix. Each packet contains an optimal amount of sodium, potassium, and magnesium. LMNT comes in various fruit flavors, including raspberry salt, orange salt, and watermelon salt.
6. Vitalyte Electrolyte Replacement Drink Mix
Vitalyte Electrolyte Replacement Drink Mix features is made with an isotonic formula for fast absorption and rehydration. This electrolyte mix is made with natural ingredients, which means no artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. It's available in flavors like orange, watermelon, and cranberry frost.
Other Ways to Prevent Electrolyte Imbalance
The good news is that electrolyte imbalances are usually preventable. Aside from adding an electrolyte powder as part of your daily wellness routine, there are other things you can do to minimize the risk of electrolyte problems.
Drink plenty of water. Even if you aren’t physically active, you need to keep your body hydrated. Aim to drink at least eight cups of water a day. You want to drink at least 10-12 if you workout or have a physical job. Coconut water is another option if you prefer something that’s slightly sweet.
Cut back on energy drinks and sodas. Energy drinks and carbonated beverages may cause blood sugar spikes, which could lead to electrolyte imbalance. If these drinks are a staple in your diet, drink plenty of water to balance it out.
Eat foods that are rich in electrolytes. Many foods are naturally rich in electrolytes. Eating foods like spinach, almonds, watermelon, tomatoes, bananas, and avocados on a regular basis can help keep your electrolyte levels in check.
Be mindful of outdoor activities when it’s hot. Whether you’re running or mowing the lawn, pushing your body too much in high temperatures can be dangerous. You run the risk of becoming dehydrated, which can worsen an electrolyte imbalance.
Final thoughts
An electrolyte imbalance can cause scary side effects. Knowing how to spot them and treat them is key for protecting your health now and in the future.