Undoubtedly, maintaining proper electrolyte balance is crucial in sports. The composition comprises sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and other essential elements. Electrolytes assist in regulating an athlete’s hydration levels, stabilising their nervous and muscular systems, and ensuring proper cellular functioning.
The amount of electrolytes lost through sweat during energy expenditure, particularly during extended periods of sweating, is significant, particularly in long endurance activities or high-intensity exercises. Insufficient quantities of these substances can result in dehydration, muscle cramps, diminished strength, and reduced performance.
Electrolytes play a crucial role in the regular functioning and adjustment to external forces. Furthermore, each of these substances possesses distinct functions in relation to nerve conduction, muscle contraction, energy production, and other vital physiological processes.
According to Shirreffs and Sawka (2011) Athletes need to consume fluids and electrolytes to maintain total body water and maintain performance, especially during intense exercise and hot weather.
Sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and facilitating the transmission of nerve impulses, which in turn impacts both nerve and muscle function.
Potassium plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and heart rate, while also aiding in the prevention of muscle cramps and contributing to energy production.
Calcium plays a crucial role in muscle contraction and bone strength, whereas magnesium is involved in energy metabolism and muscle relaxation.
Reducing electrolytes, in fact, diminishes both physical and mental endurance while also heightening the likelihood of sustaining an injury. Therefore Kenefick et al. (2012) highlighted maintaining proper electrolyte balance is crucial in sports as it can disrupt physiological homeostasis and threaten health and performance.
In addition, individuals may experience heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Athletes should hydrate on sports beverages or electrolyte tablets. Looking at suitable dietary choices to compensate for this. According to Pongornova and Zainutdinova (2021) suggest Isotonic drinks are essential for athletes, but excessive use of artificial colours, preservatives, and high sucrose content can lead to various diseases.
Overall, proper hydration and electrolyte consumption are crucial for optimal recovery, performance enhancement, and overall well-being. Coaching personnel and nutritionists play a crucial role in implementing a regime that brings about necessary changes to the nutrition system and electrolyte balance.
Reference:
- Kenefick, R., Cheuvront, S., Montain, S., Carter, R., & Sawka, M. (2012). Human Water and Electrolyte Balance. , 493-505. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119946045.CH32.
- Podgornova, N., & Zainutdinova, A. (2021). Current trends in the development of isotonic drinks for athletes. Tovaroved prodovolstvennykh tovarov (Commodity specialist of food products). https://doi.org/10.33920/igt-01-2104-10.
- Shirreffs, S., & Sawka, M. (2011). Fluid and electrolyte needs for training, competition, and recovery. Journal of Sports Sciences, 29, S39 – S46. https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2011.614269.