Can You Drink Too Many Electrolytes?

Electrolytes are substances that are important for the body to function properly, and abnormally low levels of any electrolyte can cause serious health problems. Electrolytes are often added to beverages. Although it is difficult to severely overdose on electrolytes orally, it is possible and too much of any electrolyte can also cause health problems.

Electrolytes

Electrolytes are minerals that are able to carry an electric charge when they are dissolved in your bodily fluids, such as your blood. Some of the most important electrolytes are sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride and magnesium. If you develop an imbalance in any of your electrolytes, you can develop health problems. Imbalances of sodium and potassium are generally more common than other electrolyte imbalances.

Electrolyte Measurements

The balance of electrolytes in your body is usually assessed using a blood test. This test, which may be done as part of a routine physical or for people admitted to the hospital, measures the levels of many electrolytes as a screening technique for imbalances. Electrolyte tests can also be used to monitor the resolution of a known electrolyte imbalance and can help guide treatment.

Symptoms

Elevated levels of certain electrolytes can cause severe problems. The electrolytes that you are most likely to consume too much of are sodium and potassium, resulting in hypernatremia and hyperkalemia, respectively. Hypernatremia can cause muscle twitching, irritability, increased thirst, trouble breathing, restlessness, decreased mental status and seizures. Over time, consuming too much sodium can also increase your blood pressure. Hyperkalemia can cause nausea, an irregular heartbeat and a slow or weak pulse.

Regulation

It is difficult to drink too many electrolytes from sports drinks or other beverages because the body is able to regulate electrolyte levels. Your kidneys are able to excrete excess electrolytes via the urine. However, if you have impaired kidney function or you consume massive amounts of electrolytes via beverages, it is theoretically possible to drink too many electrolytes. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about electrolyte consumption.