Up to 60 percent of the human body is made up of water, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. That means the fluids -- and food -- you consume on a daily basis play a remarkable role in keeping your body running normally. Any imbalance in fluids or electrolytes can cause serious damage and side effects, making it important to understand the causes and effects of these potential imbalances.
Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals found in the fluids you drink and the foods you eat, which your body needs in order to carry out basic functions every day. Creating and repairing tissue, digestive function and the building and strengthening of bones are just some of the body processes your body relies on electrolytes for. Calcium, potassium, sodium and magnesium are all examples of electrolytes. Having too little sodium in your body, for example, can lead to dizziness, weakness in the muscles, confusion and, in extreme cases, even seizures.
Dehydration
When your body doesn't have enough water to function, essential functions in your body begin to slow or shut down, according to MayoClinic.com. Drinking enough water helps to restore the water your body loses on a normal basis. Food accounts for roughly 20 percent of your water intake for the day, according to MayoClinic.com, so shoot for about two liters of water per day in order to replenish what your body loses on average.
Overhydration
Although your body does need water, drinking too much of it can cause a fluid imbalance, leading to complications. If your body's organs -- such as the kidneys and liver -- are functioning normally, it would take 6 gallons of water per day in order to overhydrate, according to Merck. Abnormal organ function, such as kidney failure, can lead to overhydration and low sodium levels.
Causes
An imbalance in fluid and electrolyte levels may indicate a problem with some of the basic functions of your body. Kidney failure may result in elevated potassium levels, for instance, which may lead to an abnormal heart rhythm. The use of diuretics can also cause abnormal fluid and electrolyte levels as the body loses more fluid than normal. Exercise can also affect your fluid levels as the body loses water through perspiration and breathing.
Prevention/Solution
If you have serious electrolyte or fluid imbalances, your doctor will likely take blood tests to determine both the seriousness of the imbalance and potentially the cause. Maintaining healthy levels of fluids and electrolytes on a daily basis involves drinking enough water -- but not excessive amounts -- as well as properly fueling your body when you exercise. Sports drinks are an optimal solution since they contain plenty of water but are also packed with many of the essential electrolytes your body loses during exercise.
