Got Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are minerals (primarily sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, bicarbonate, phosphate, and sulfate) that are essential to our bodies. They regulate cell, organ, nerve, and muscle function, blood pressure, blood pH and much more; yet they are probably the most neglected nutrients in people that engage in outdoor exercise/activities. Exercising outdoors can be dangerous, especially in this hot Arizona heat. Excessive sweating can cause an imbalance in electrolytes which could lead to a serious heat related illness; this is why it’s important to replenish lost electrolytes. Taking an electrolyte supplement is one way to replenish these vital minerals. They can be purchased at just about any health food/supplement location, e.g., Hi-Health, GNC, The Vitamin Shoppe, etc.
This About.com article is a great resource for further reading “Hot Weather Exercise Safety”.
August 6th, 2009 at 4:19 pm
Thank you! You often write very interesting articles. You improved my mood.