The role of electrolytes in controlling blood pressure
Electrolytes are electrolyte minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium, which play a role in maintaining fluid balance, regulating neurons, muscles and stabilizing blood pressure.
In particular, sodium retains water in the body, but excess will increase blood volume, causing blood pressure to increase. Potassium has the opposite effect, helping blood vessels relax, helping to reduce blood pressure. Calcium constricts blood vessels, contributing to high blood pressure, while magnesium helps dilate vessels, balancing the effects of calcium.
The tournament is the foundation for the body's biological activities. But if supplemented incorrectly, especially excess sodium, they can put a big burden on the heart and kidneys," shared nutritionist Sherry Gray, MPH, RD, University of Connecticut (USA).
Electrolyte drinks: benefits and risks
Electrolyte-reducing drinks, from medical rehydration solutions (ORS) to sports drinks, all contain sodium and potassium with different contents. For example, a 710ml Powerade bottle has 480 mg of sodium, equivalent to nearly 20% of the maximum daily requirement recommended by the American Heart Association (2,300 mg).
For healthy people, occasional use after high-intensity exercise is often not harmful. However, in people with high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease or heart failure, taking more sodium from electrolyte drinks can make the condition worse.
In contrast, potassium-rich products such as coconut water or low-salt tomato juice help lower blood pressure. Dr. Jen Bruning, MS, RDN, LDN, nutritionist in Chicago and spokesperson for the Institute of Nutrition & Dietetics, emphasized: Elleroconut supplementation should be personalized. For people with high blood pressure, prioritize sources rich in potassium instead of sports drinks rich in sodium".
When should you drink electrolytes?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), oral electrolyte replacement solution (ORS) is the top choice for dehydration due to diarrhea, vomiting or excessive sweating. With mild to moderate dehydration, this product helps recover quickly.
However, in daily life, most adults only need to supplement electrolytes from foods: green vegetables, fruits, milk or nuts. Drinking enough water has met the needs of the body under normal conditions.
The restaurant is both a "friend" to help stabilize blood pressure and can be a double-edged sword if consumed incorrectly. People with cardiovascular, kidney disease or high blood pressure should consult a doctor before taking electrolyte supplementation drinks regularly. As for healthy people, prioritizing natural foods and water is still a safe and sustainable choice.
