The Function of Electrolytes and Their Effects on the Body

Jakarta – Dr. Diana Felicia Suganda, M.Kes, Sp. G.K, a clinical nutrition specialist and graduate of Universitas Indonesia, explained the function of electrolytes for the body in daily activity. “Our body is unique and largely consists of fluids. In fact, 60 to 65 percent of our body is made up of fluids, containing water, blood, plasma and electrolytes,” Diana said at a press conference in Jakarta on Tuesday. Diana cited four types of electrolytes in the body: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. All of them complement the functions that plain water alone does not provide. Other functions include supporting the function of the heart and the nervous system, as well as maintaining bone and muscle health. “Actually, calcium and magnesium, for example, not only help with sleep, but they also maintain brain contractility. The brain, when we exercise, contracts and relaxes. In short, processes that oppose each other are influenced by electrolytes,” she said. A person can also experience cramps or muscle spasms, muscles become weak, fatigue easily, headaches and even burnout. Therefore, Diana advised the public to reduce the habit of withholding thirst so that bodily fluids remain adequately supplied. The body can become increasingly dehydrated if a person engages in heavy activity or exercise that requires a lot of energy. “Sometimes the loss of fluids and electrolytes occurs without us realising it. Sometimes via urine, sometimes through sweat, and even through breath we lose them. So sometimes we don’t feel thirsty. By the time we feel thirsty, it is actually several steps too late,” Diana said.