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:

Less important roles are played by magnesium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and chromium. [1]

Purpose[edit | edit source]

Sources[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

ME/CFS[edit | edit source]

Electrolytes are a possible treatment for the energy metabolism and ion transportation problems found in M.E.[2]

See also[edit | edit source]

Learn more[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 OpenStax (February 26, 2016). Anatomy & Physiology. OpenStax CNS.
  2. 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.