Introduction to Electrolytes

Electrolytes are inorganic substances— acids, bases, or salts that dissociate into their component cations and anions when dissolved in water. For example, NaCl, a salt, breaks apart into Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions in water.

In humans, common electrolytes include NaCl, KCl, MgCl₂, CaPO₄, Na₂SO₄, NaHCO₃, and Na₂HPO₄. Each of these dissociates into ions in body fluids such as plasma.

The resulting cations and anions are vital to many physiological processes in the body. For instance, the sodium-glucose-linked transporter or SGLT1 on the intestinal epithelial cells imports glucose by co-transporting two sodium ions inside the cell.

Electrolytes are sourced from consumed foods and drinks and lost through urine, feces, and sweat. A normal electrolyte level is essential to maintain homeostasis in the body.

Any abnormal rise or fall in electrolyte levels affects several body functions. For example, extremely low levels of potassium ions can cause muscle paralysis. Conversely, any increase above normal induces an irregular heart beat.