What Do Electrolytes Actually Do?

This week Reactions takes a look at the chemistry behind electrolytes and sports drink science. Sports drink commercials love talking about them, but what are electrolytes, why do we need them, and what happens if we don’t have enough? Electrolytes are salts that, once in our bodies, help our cells move water around. They also enable the nerve impulses that keep our hearts beating, our lungs breathing and our brains learning. But we can also lose them — for example, by sweating. Given all the ins and outs of electrolytes, should you reach for that bright orange sports drink after running around the block?

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Nylon Flares by Alex Makinson

Producer:
Elaine Seward

Writer:
Elaine Seward

Executive Producer:
Adam Dylewski

Scientific consultants:
Chris Yarosh, Ph.D.
Eric Sobolewski, Ph.D.
Darcy Gentleman, Ph.D.
Kyle Nackers

Ever wonder why dogs sniff each others' butts? Or how Adderall works? Or whether it's OK to pee in the pool? We've got you covered: Reactions a web series about the chemistry that surrounds you every day.

Reactions is produced by the American Chemical Society.

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