Imagine that you’re sitting at your desk trying to get through your to-do list, but you just can’t seem to concentrate on anything. Or maybe you’re dreading your daily workout because your body feels sluggish and slow, like you’re anchored to the ground. We’ve all experienced days like this and likely chalked them up to being tired or having an “off day”. However, these symptoms are actually known as brain fog and fatigue—and they’re more common than you might think. The most likely cause? An imbalance of electrolytes in the body.
What exactly is an electrolyte?
Electrolytes are minerals that carry a natural electrical charge—and our body simply can’t function without them. When dissolved in water, they become conductive, allowing the electrical signals in our body to travel through them like an electrical circuit. This ensures a steady source of power that we use to regulate the function of our nervous system, muscles, and even our heartbeat. Our body also balances its water levels by carefully adjusting the concentration of electrolytes both inside and outside of our cells. This process pulls water into the cells that need it, or it can draw excess water out to be excreted as urine. Each of these functions relies on a careful balance of electrolytes.
The 7 essential electrolytes
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Chloride
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Phosphate
- Bicarbonate
What causes an imbalance?
There are several factors that can cause an imbalance, but the primary culprit is our modern lifestyles. Things like chronic stress, poor diets, and intense physical activity can all deplete your electrolyte levels, leading to dehydration and impaired brain and muscle function.
How do I know if I’m getting enough?
The most common indicators of an electrolyte imbalance are brain fog and fatigue, but symptoms like headaches, irritability, and twitches can all tell you that it’s time to top up your levels. If you want to avoid these symptoms altogether, make sure you’re getting the electrolytes your body needs through food and supplements.
Electrolyte-rich foods
A balanced diet is a great way to keep your body fueled so it can perform its best. When planning out your meals, try incorporating electrolyte-rich foods like leafy greens, bananas, nuts and dairy products. You’ll also want to drink plenty of water throughout the day so your body can dissolve the electrolytes and use them effectively.
When to supplement your diet
While food should be your main source, it’s not always possible to get everything you need from your diet alone. You may reach for grab-and-go snacks on busy days or have an intense workout that depletes your levels more than usual. These are perfect times to supplement with electrolytes. You can throw them in your bag or keep them at the office so they’re always on hand for high-focus days, periods of stress, heavy exercise and even heatwaves.
Add MagPop! to your daily routine
Looking for a great way to keep your body hydrated and replenished? Orange Naturals’ MagPop! combines magnesium glycinate, vitamin C and electrolytes to support bone building, muscle function, tissue formation and more. Simply mix it with water for a delicious, fizzy drink that’s free of artificial colours, flavours and added sugars.
Now that you understand the importance of electrolytes and how to keep them topped up, you’re ready to say goodbye to brain fog and fatigue. As it turns out, life really is all about balance—electrolyte balance, at least.
Sources:
Electrolytes
Overview of Fluid and Electrolyte Balance
Essential Electrolytes
Do Electrolytes Really Boost Hydration?
All About Electrolyte Imbalance
25 Foods That Replenish Electrolytes
