Sodium, potassium and chloride: checking the balance

For information only. Products do not replace diagnosis, treatment or a varied diet. Seek professional advice for symptoms, pregnancy and use by children.

One symptom does not identify a deficiency

Sodium, potassium and chloride contribute to fluid balance and nerve and muscle function. Tiredness or cramp alone cannot show which mineral is low. Too little and too much can both cause problems. With kidney or heart disease, or medicines that affect electrolytes, do not independently add potassium or very salty mixtures.

Separate daily routines from illness

For an ordinary day, consider regular meals, water and actual fluid losses. Prolonged sweating, vomiting or diarrhoea needs a different assessment. Seek medical help for serious symptoms, palpitations, confusion or inability to keep fluids down. Replacement depends on the findings and cause, not a drink name.

Compare a drink accurately

You can compare Forever Aloe Vera Gel as an oral drink by ingredients and taste, but not as an electrolyte replacement solution. Check sugars, serving size and declared minerals separately. Aloe does not replace a prescribed oral rehydration solution. Before a professional consultation, record the duration of exercise or illness and the medicines you take.

An ordinary working day does not require calculating every milligram of electrolytes. Repeated watery stools or being unable to keep fluids down are different circumstances. Describe their duration and your urination to a health professional and ask whether an oral rehydration solution is appropriate. If recommended, mix it with exactly the stated water quantity without adding honey, aloe or extra salt.

Sources: MedlinePlus Forever Living.