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Electrolyte
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Electrolytes are essential to homeostasis, the normal functioning of the human body, and play a key role in metabolism.[1] A lack of electrolytes, incorrect electrolyte balance, too little or too much of an electrolyte can cause serious health problems,[1] and in extreme cases death.
In medicine, the term electrolytes refers to a mineral that has been dissociated from a salt that carries an electrical charge (an ion). For example, sodium ions are often referred to as electrolytes.[1]
Electrolytes that play a key role in the human body are:
- Potassium
- Sodium, for example table salt (sodium chloride) or saline
- chloride
- bicarbonate
- calcium, and
- phosphate
Less important roles are played by magnesium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and chromium. [1]
Purpose
Sources
Electrolytes are present in food and drinks (including trace amounts in water). They are also available as supplements, and some can be injected or provided intravenously.
Evidence
ME/CFS
Electrolytes are a possible treatment for the energy metabolism and ion transportation problems found in M.E.[2]
See also
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Minerals
- Ion transportation
- Channelopathy
- Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome
- List of electrolytes
Learn more
- Electrolytes - Merriam-Webster Medical Dictionary
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 OpenStax (February 26, 2016). Anatomy & Physiology. OpenStax CNS.
- ↑ Carruthers, B.M.; Sande, M. I. van de; Meirleir, K. L. De; Klimas, N.G.; Broderick, G.; Mitchell, T.; Staines, D.; Powles, A.C.P.; Speight, N. (October 1, 2011). "Myalgic encephalomyelitis: International Consensus Criteria" (PDF). Journal of Internal Medicine. 270 (4). doi:10.1111/j.1365-2796.2011.02428.x/full. ISSN 1365-2796.
