electrolyte balance
Cellular charge regulation
Electrolyte balance is the body's regulation of dissolved minerals—sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium—that conduct electrical impulses in cells.
These minerals control nerve signals, muscle contractions, and hydration.
Athletes worry about electrolyte balance during intense exercise: Sports drinks help restore electrolyte balance after a marathon.
Imbalances cause symptoms from muscle cramps to heart arrhythmias.
- sodiumEleventh element, highly reactive
- osmoregulationMaintaining internal solute balance
- homeostasisBiological internal stability maintenance
- electrolytesConducting ions in solution
- potassiumNineteenth element, symbol K
bicarbonate · alkalosis · kidney disease · blood pressure regulation · osmosis · intravenous fluids · IV drip · phosphate · hydrogen ions · blood chemistry · kidney function · chloride · magnesium · thirst · water retention · weakness · replenish · urine
- nutritionnutrients, protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins
- nutrition termscalorie, high protein, low-fat, low fat, moderation
- hydrationhydrated, water, drinking water, dehydrated, thirsty
- cell biologycell membrane, cell division, cytoplasm, ribosome, mitochondria
- homeostasishomeostasis, negative feedback, feedback loop, feedback loops, positive feedback
- physiologymetabolism, circulation, respiration, homeostasis, digestion
electrolyte balanceelectrolyte imbalance
Abnormal blood mineral levels
hyponatremia · hyperkalemia · fluid imbalance · dehydration · mineral deficiency