Electrolyte Overdose: Do you start drinking a lot of electrolyte when you are sick? Know how dangerous overdose is?:

News Topical, Digital Desk : Electrolyte Supplements Risks: When you fall ill, especially with vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or persistent sweating, people often start drinking excessive amounts of electrolyte or electrolyte drinks to get well soon. The body generally maintains its electrolyte balance through your daily diet. However, if you are sweating profusely or have frequent vomiting and diarrhea, essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium are rapidly lost from the body, leading to dehydration. In such a situation, electrolyte or sports drinks are beneficial, but not excessively. Let us tell you what harm can occur if you use them in excess.

What is the harm?

First, you need to understand that electrolytes balance the body's fluid levels and help muscles, nerves, and organs function properly. However, in overdose, these minerals can cause an adverse imbalance. According to a report by brgeneral, this can manifest as symptoms such as weakness, headache, tremors, confusion, muscle aches, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and upset stomach. Excessive electrolyte levels can lead to conditions such as hypernatremia or hyperkalemia, which can affect the functioning of the nerves and heart. Such overload can lead to irregular heartbeats, increased blood pressure, and additional strain on the kidneys, increasing the risk of fluid imbalance. Many brands selling electrolyte powders recommend dissolving a packet in a prescribed amount of water and drinking it. Some people use this daily, but the companies also emphasize that it's best to consult a doctor before consuming it frequently.

What should you do?

If your electrolyte loss is not excessive, such as due to heavy sweating, exercise, or a stomach infection, drinking electrolytes frequently would be considered an overdose. In such a situation, water is the best option. For workouts, experts recommend drinking 8 to 16 ounces of water 45 to 60 minutes before starting, 5 to 9 ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes during exercise, and if the activity lasts more than 30 minutes, then only take an electrolyte drink, that too after checking your sugar level. Electrolytes are important, but only as much as the body needs. Excessive amounts can also be harmful.