Electrolytes are salts that dissolve in water and separate into smaller atoms or molecules (ions) that carry an electric charge. Why does the body need electrical charges? Like a telephone uses wire to carry the human voice, our cells use electrolytes to carry the messages that control many nerve and muscle functions. Pure water does not conduct electricity very well; if there weren’t electrolytes circulating with the body’s water, those messages would never be sent. Learn about the electrolytes in your body and what fluids are best to keep your body hydrated.

HYDRATION VIDEOS

CHAPTER 1 What is Hydration? Maintaining adequate hydration is fundamental to human health as it is to all organic life on Earth. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 8 The Thirst Cycle From the day we’re born our brain and body knows how to detect and resolve a need for fluids. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 10 (currently viewing) Electrolytes Electrolytes are salts that dissolve in water and separate into smaller atoms or molecules that carry an electric charge. VIEW VIDEO