Electrolytes are a class of minerals that exist as salts, acids or bases within your body. Because they assist in a number of vital functions, maintaining a proper electrolyte balance is crucial for staying healthy. Some commercially-sold drinks and waters are electrolyte-enhanced to help restore your fluid balance after vigorous exercise, sweating or illness that causes loss of water.
Description
Electrolytes include calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphate and chlorine. As MedlinePlus explains, these minerals are imperative for controlling muscle function in your body and maintaining normal blood chemistry. Any imbalance of them can have adverse effects on your health, including problems with heart function. You can lose electrolytes through excessive sweating, kidney problems, vomiting, diarrhea and medications that cause your body to lose fluids.
Function
Manufacturers add electrolytes -- particularly sodium and potassium -- to beverages so that the drinks will improve hydration and restore your body's electrolyte balance. When you consume a drink with electrolytes after sweating, vomiting or diarrhea, you can help prevent dehydration and muscle problems. Because athletes are at risk of losing electrolytes through sweat, many electrolyte-enhanced beverages are on the market as sports drinks and used during physical activity.
Benefits
Because eating an electrolyte-rich meal may not be practical during activities that deplete electrolytes, such as long-distance running or other endurance sports, consuming electrolyte-enhanced drinks can be a convenient alternative. Compared to food, liquids are readily absorbed and can replenish your electrolytes within seconds after you drink them. For athletes, beverages with electrolytes may improve performance by combating dehydration and muscle weakness.
Considerations
Although electrolyte-enhanced drinks and waters can be useful for staying hydrated, not all are the same. As Teen Consumer Health and Safety explains, sports drinks often contain added sugar and flavorings, making them high in fast-digesting calories. Unless you're burning large amounts of energy through exercise, the added sugar may be more harmful than helpful, particularly if you're trying to lose weight. In addition, most people have an adequate electrolyte intake from food alone. Drinks with electrolytes might not be necessary if you eat a balanced diet and don't engage in extreme physical activity.
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