by HCSG Contributor

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Electrolytes: The Human Battery

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Our bodies are like giant energy factories, with oxygen, food, and water as primary fuel sources. But many are unaware of the critical role electrolytes play in metabolic energy. Each human cell is capable of producing approximately 1.4 volts of electricity.  Although this may not sound like a lot, when multiplied by the 50 trillion cells in our body, we arrive at an astonishing 70 trillion volts or the equivalent of 70 billion lightning bolts!

To better understand each energy source, we’ve created an easy-to-read chart showing you how to incorporate more electrolytes into your daily diet. Navigate through the tabs below to better understand the types of electrolytes, their functions, and food sources to boost them.

Sodium
Potassium
Magnesium

Sodium

Function
Extra-cellular fluid balance, nerve impulse conduction, elimination of excess CO2, glucose transport into cells, acid/base balance, kidney function and urination, blood pressure optimization, and mental acuity.

Food Sources
Sea Salt, Pink Himalayan Salt, Bagels, Croissants, Baked/Kidney/Lima Beans, Feta Cheese, Lobster, Miso, Pickles, Tomato Sauces, Sauerkraut, Cheeses, Salad Dressings, Fish/Seafood

A list of electrolyte-rich foods with visual examples.

Potassium

Function
Fluid balance, nerve signaling, muscle contractions, heartbeat regulation, protein and carbohydrate synthesis, blood pressure, kidney health, proper sodium excretion, avoiding depletion of calcium in bones, and decreases the risk of kidney stones.

Food Sources
Avocados, Artichokes, Apricots, Dried Beans/Peas/Lentils, Beef, Broccoli, Beets/Beat Greens, Cantaloupe, Clams, Fish/Seafood, Dates, Apricots, Kale, Mango, Milk, Pomegranates, Papaya, Tomato Sauce, Spinach, Sweet/Baked Potato, Yogurt

A list of electrolyte-rich foods with visual examples.

Magnesium

Function
Energy creation from food, protein formation from amino acids, repair and maintenance of DNA and RNA, muscle contraction and relaxation, neurotransmitter communication, nervous system health, and approximately 500 other metabolic functions.

Food Sources
Avocado, Salmon, Brown Rice, Peanut Butter, Edamame, Black Beans, Cashews, Brazil Nuts, Almonds, Spinach, Pumpkin and Chia Seeds, Dark Chocolate, Legumes, Collard Greens, Kale, Tofu

A list of electrolyte-rich foods with visual examples.
Photo of William Savage, RD

William Savage, RD | william.savage@hcsgcorp.com

“My desire to teach and learn is insatiable and I’m proud to be on the HCSG team.”

Bill is a graduate of the University at Florida State with over 20 years of experience in the clinical arena. Before joining the HCSG Dietitian team in 2021, Bill led the nutrition rotation for the Gastroenterology Fellowship Program for almost a decade at an acute care surgical and transplant hospital.

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