Electrolytes are ions that the body needs to carry out vital functions. Some of these electrolytes include sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and chloride. Each one of these electrolytes is necessary to normal, healthy body functions.
We have been told for years that we should be consuming low-sodium foods, but sodium is actually necessary for the body–one of its main functions is keeping fluids in check! Sodium (Na+) is essential for normal nerve function, muscle functioning, fluid balance, and blood pressure balance. Sodium imbalance can lead to muscle cramps, lethargy, and vomiting.
You rapidly lose electrolytes on the ketogenic diet (due to decreased insulin and increased water excretion) so make sure to supplement with plenty of sodium. Adding salt to your foods is the easiest way to get in extra sodium but, if you are looking for sodium-rich foods try pickles, pork rinds, or meats cured in salt (make sure they aren’t also cured in sugar!).
Shrimanker I, Bhattarai S. Electrolytes. [Updated 2020 Jan 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan-.