Electrolyte Imbalance & Cramps

Most individuals experience muscle cramps at some point in their lives. Muscle cramps occur in individuals of all ages, often after exercise or at night. Muscle cramps usually last only a few seconds but can last up to 15 minutes. To relieve the muscle cramp, gently massage the area. One common cause of muscle cramps is electrolyte imbalance, which can result from fluid loss associated with diarrhea, vomiting or excessive sweating.

Electrolytes

Electrolytes are electrically charges molecules that are found in your blood, urine and other body fluids. The right balance of electrolytes is important in helping your body maintain homeostasis. Too much or too little of an electrolyte can cause an electrolyte imbalance. Problems most often occur if you develop an imbalance of the electrolytes sodium and potassium. Other electrolytes found in your body include calcium, chlorine, phosphate and magnesium, according to MedlinePlus.

Sodium

Sodium plays an important role in helping your muscles and nerves to function properly. Sodium also helps to keep the right balance of fluids in your body. Most people get enough salt in their diet, however, many health-conscious people try to limit salt intake. When there is low sodium in your bloodstream -- called hyponatremia-- muscle cramps and weakness may result.

Potassium

Potassium works closely with sodium and is needed for your nerve and muscle cells to function properly. A small drop in potassium usually will not cause any symptoms, however, when you develop low potassium -- or hypokalemia -- from inadequate intake or excess loss, you may experience muscle weakness, which can lead to cramps and spasms. To ensure you are getting enough potassium in your diet, include foods such as bananas, granola, kiwi, oranges, peaches, peas and beans.

Hydration

When you lose more fluids than you take in, it causes dehydration and your body will not have enough water to carry out bodily functions effectively. Dehydration may be the result of intense diarrhea, vomiting, fever or excessive sweating, without replacing fluid afterward. Not drinking enough water during hot weather or exercise causes your body to sweat a lot and also may cause dehydration. Dehydration disrupts the balance between sodium, potassium and water in your body and may lead to muscle cramps. Drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and in the case of excess fluid loss, replace those fluids with water or an electrolyte beverage.