Another name for ions are electrolytes which attract water and lead to osmosis.
ID: 214866 • Letter: A
Question
Another name for ions are electrolytes which attract water and lead to osmosis. Osmosis is the process of maintaining the ion movement in and out of a cell which will travel down a gradient to a lower concentration. We are able to consume electrolytes through liquid sources such as Propel and Gatorade and also various foods like potatoes and bananas. Athletes are known to replenish energy and thirst by consuming these drink products in order to stay hydrated. My questions this week are, how would you know if your body had an electrolyte imbalance? Are there any hormones that can keep electrolytes in balance? Lastly, while electrolytes help to maintain homeostasis in the body, what disadvantages could occur from consuming too many?
Explanation / Answer
Answer- Electrolytes are chemicals that conduct electricity when mixed with water. They regulate nerve and muscle function , hydrate the body , balance blood acidity and pressure and help rebuild the damage tissues.
Older adults are particularly at risk of electrolyte imbalance.The level of electrolyte in the blood can become too high or too low leading to an imbalance. Electrolyte levels can change in relation to water levels in body and other factors also. Important electrolytes are lost in sweat during exercise, like sodium and pottasium
The kidneys and several hormones regulate the concentration of each electroyte. If levels of a substance are too high, the kidney filter it from body and different hormones act to balance the levels
Higher level or harmful concentration of magnesiun, sodium , pottasium, calcium can produce so many symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, weakness, bone disorders, changes in blood pressure, numbness, confusions, nervous system disorders, excessive tiredness, muscle spasm etc.
Calcium excess can also occur , especially in those with breast cancer, lung cancer. This type of excess is generally caused by the destruction of bone tissues.