The term electrolyte refers to the various salts in the body, which are comprised of cations (positively charged) and anions (negatively charged), collectively known as ions. These ions are distributed throughout the fluid compartments of the body, where they regulate the electrical functions of the body, such as the central nervous system, cardiac muscle contraction, skeletal muscle contraction and neural function etc.
Sodium Chloride and Potassium Bicarbonate are examples of two of the most common salts used by your body to regulate your electrolyte balance. The following is a breakdown of how these salts are separated within the body for electrical function.
Sodium Chloride - (This Salt Is An Electrolyte That Is Mainly Extra Cellular)
Sodium = Positively Charged Extra Cellular Ion (Cation)
Chloride = Negatively Charged Extra Cellular Ion (Anion)
Potassium Bicarbonate - (This Salt Is An Electrolyte That Is Mainly Intra Cellular)
Potassium = Positively Charged Intra Cellular Ion (Cation)
Bicarbonate = Negatively Charged Intra Cellular Ion (Anion)
Extreme examples of what can happen with an imbalance of electrolytes include cardiac arrhythmia (due to elevated potassium levels) or paralysis (in the case of decreased intra cellular potassium levels), while excessive extra cellular sodium levels can lead to nausea and fluid retention.
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