Sodium is one of the body’s electrolytes, which are minerals that the body needs in relatively large amounts. Electrolytes carry an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids such as blood.

Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals and compounds that help your body do much of its work — producing energy and contracting your muscles, for example. Sodium, chloride, potassium and calcium are all types of electrolytes.

If your electrolyte levels become too high or too low, serious health complications can arise. Daily electrolyte and fluid losses occur naturally through sweat and other waste products. Therefore, it’s important to regularly replenish them with a mineral-rich diet.

5 Foods to Replenish Electrolytes

• Dairy. Milk and yogurt are excellent sources of the electrolyte calcium.
• Bananas. Bananas are known to be the king of all potassium containing fruits and veggies.
• Coconut Water. For a quick energy and electrolyte boost during or after a workout, try coconut water.
• Watermelon.
• Avocado.

8 Healthy Drinks Rich in Electrolytes

1. Coconut water. Coconut water, or coconut juice, is the clear liquid found inside of a coconut.
2. Milk.
3. Watermelon water (and other fruit juices)
4. Smoothies.
5. Electrolyte-infused waters.
6. Electrolyte tablets.
7. Sports drinks.
8. Pedialyte.

Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, a vital mineral and electrolyte in the body that carries a small electrical charge.

Fruits: Bananas, dried apricots, prunes, and other fruits are high in potassium. Dairy products: Cheese, yogurt, and other forms of dairy are good sources of calcium. They also contain other electrolytes, such as magnesium, sodium, and phosphorous.

Foods with electrolytes include:

• spinach.
• kale.
• avocados.
• broccoli.
• potatoes.
• beans.
• almonds.
• peanuts.

potassium

NATURAL SOURCES OF ELECTROLYTES Peanut Butter: Not only is peanut butter packed with protein, it also contains a good amount of sodium. Natural peanut butter goes well with everything from a banana (another source of electrolytes) to a bagel, or just enjoy it by the spoonful.

Fruit juice Cherry, watermelon and orange juice are good sources of electrolytes such as magnesium, potassium and phosphorus, says Lisa Jones, a registered dietitian based in Philadelphia. “One hundred percent fruit juice also contributes high amounts of vitamins and antioxidants,” Jones says.

How to get electrolytes

1. Drink unsweetened coconut water. Coconut water is a good source of electrolytes.
2. Eat bananas. Eat a banana for some potassium.
3. Consume dairy products.
4. Cook white meat and poultry.
5. Eat avocado.
6. Drink fruit juice.
7. Snack on watermelon.
8. Try electrolyte infused waters.

Foods With Electrolytes Spinach is a phenomenal source of the electrolytes calcium and magnesium. For adults, a single cup of cooked spinach has a daily intake value of 24% calcium and 73% magnesium. This vegetable is also a wonderful source of other micronutrients, such as vitamin A and vitamin K.

When your body becomes low on electrolytes, it can impair your body’s functions, such as blood clotting, muscle contractions, acid balance, and fluid regulation. Your heart is a muscle, so that means electrolytes help regulate your heartbeat.

An electrolyte panel, also known as a serum electrolyte test, is a blood test that measures levels of the body’s main electrolytes: Sodium, which helps control the amount of fluid in the body. It also helps your nerves and muscles work properly. Chloride, which also helps control the amount of fluid in the body.

An electrolyte panel is a blood test that measures the levels of electrolytes and carbon dioxide in your blood. Electrolytes are minerals, such as sodium and potassium, that are found in the body.

Studies have found that older adults may be more susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances than younger adults. There are many reasons for this, including: The kidneys may lose some of their function with age. Older adults may take multiple medications, such as diuretics, that can change electrolyte levels.

Intravenous (IV) fluids with a high-concentration of sodium, and/or diuretics to raise your blood sodium levels. Loop Diuretics – also known as “water pills” as they work to raise blood sodium levels, by making you urinate out extra fluid.