The more difficult topic is electrolytes. What are these electrolytes and how do we know we are getting the right amount? Electrolytes are molecules with an electrical charge that change electrical gradients in water. These gradients then have the ability to move water such as a gravitational gradient of a river flowing down a mountain. Because our cells operate on such a delicate water balance, they must have an acute ability to control how much water is in them and around them. To do this they have proteins that act as pumps for the electrolytes. Yes, the cells don’t move the water as water molecules are small and monotonous, but they can move electrolytes and the electrolytes can move the water. The key electrolyte pairs are sodium / potassium, calcium / magnesium with manganese as magnesiums helper in balancing calcium.

Not only do electrolytes work in the distribution of water, but they also have a big role in muscle contraction and nervous system activity. The muscles and brain rely heavily on electricity to function. That electricity is controlled and maintained by the electrolytes and other metals that can change the way nerves fire. There are little particles of metals between nerve cells that determine the firing rates of the neurons. If the metals aren’t in balance the nerve cells might fire to easily or not fire at all which can be caused by nerve cell damage. It would be like cutting the wires to the lights in your house. In order for the wire to work, it needs to be consistent from beginning to end. Even one little snip in the wire means your lights wont work at all. The body works in the same way as it must transmit hundreds of electrical signals per second through these wire-like strings called nerves. Although the same applies to brain cells as well. So if there is any lack in electrolytes, the brain and nerve cells will begin to behave much differently. Therefore, making electrolytes critical for mental health and mental performance.