How Electrolyte Balance Affects Our Immune System

What we eat is extremely important to our health. The nutrients in food and drinks we consume enable the cells in our bodies to perform their necessary functions. Being aware of our diet has become more and more important everyday, specially at times like this of Coronavirus, where our immune system is encouraged to be working properly and strong.

The constant journey to keeping your body properly hydrated is key at times like these where the Covid-19 virus spread is real and our need for a well-functioning immune system is very important. It only makes sense, especially now, to stay as healthy and prepared as possible. There is a quote from the textbook Perspectives in Nutrition, written by Wardlow and Insel, that describes how the nutrients in food and drinks are essential for our physical functioning. "Nutrients are the nourishing substances in food that are essential for the growth, development and maintenance of body functions. Essential meaning that if a nutrient is not present, aspects of function and therefore human health decline. When nutrient intake does not regularly meet the nutrient needs dictated by the cell activity, the metabolic processes slow down or even stop."

Electrolytes and micro minerals also play vital roles in our overall health, and cellular function. Electrolyte imbalance is known to cause nervous system dysfunction, weakness, weaker immune system, blood pressure changes, fatigue and muscle spasm. We were born with 70-80% water in our body. Bodily fluids and electrolytes play vital roles in our body and health.

A well-functioning and healthy immune system is probably one of our best weapons against the fight with viruses and diseases. In this blog, I will show you the importance of maintaining a healthy electrolyte balance in order to boost your immune system and help your body fight any threat it might come across in times of Coronavirus.

What are electrolytes?

We are made up of trillions of microscopic cells that work day and night to keep our body functioning properly. Electrolytes are involved in many essential processes in your body. Basically, electrolytes are salts that break down into their component ions when water is added.

Electrolytes are very much essential for hydration, especially for athletes or elderly people who have other health issues, such as kidney or liver dysfunctions, causing electrolyte imbalances. Salt, potassium, calcium, and chloride are examples of electrolytes. They play a role in conducting nervous impulses, contracting muscles, keeping you hydrated and regulating your body’s pH levels

Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in your body is important. Naturally occurring electrolytes in your diet would prevent health problems and electrolyte imbalance in your body. You should be careful and watch what you eat. I have put together a blog listing the benefits of a healthy balanced diet and you can check it out by clicking here. The foods you eat, especially if they have added sodium in them, can cause an electrolyte imbalance.

It’s also important to remember that when you eat foods with added electrolytes, it does not ensure that all the electrolytes will be absorbed by your body. Therefore, it’s best to consume foods that balance electrolytes naturally. Try to include organically grown foods like fruits, vegetables, poultry, fish and meats. Thankfully, there are lots of smart and easy ways you can boost your immune system and stay healthy. I’ve put together a list of products and foods you could use when trying to fight this virus and staying healthy.

Conclusion:

Electrolytes play vital roles in our cell functions, nervous system functions and immune system. Just because they are microscopic and trace elements, they should never be neglected. An electrolyte imbalance may cause severe health issues, which can be avoided simply by including electrolyte rich foods in our daily diet.

We should always remember that vitamin and minerals — particularly A, C and E, as well as zinc — play an important role in keeping the immune system strong so that it can fight off foreign invaders. Filling each plate with produce, lean meats, dairy and healthy fats, will help us to get what we need to help keep our immune system strong.

Our body also needs fluids and electrolytes to function at its best. That’s especially true when you are suffering symptoms like fever, coughing, diarrhea and vomiting, which can easily dehydrate you. Proper hydration helps with recovery. Drinks with essential electrolytes such as Hydra-Guard Sports Drink have been recommended by the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics for decades to relieve symptoms associated with virus-related mild to moderate dehydration in both adults and kids. You could use the code JOAO10 for a special discount on the website, and I also recommend you to subscribe to the newsletter because they are always releasing special codes for even higher discounts on their products.

The CDC says if you’re experiencing symptoms of coronavirus — including fever, cough, shortness of breath 2-14 days after exposure — seek medical attention immediately. Today is a great day to start taking the best care of yourself. Don’t skip on great nutrition, hydration, rest and exercise. Help others do the same. And, for the latest information from the CDC, please click here.