Electrolytes in the body are minerals that carry an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids such as blood, urine, and tissues. These charged minerals can have positive or negative charges and are essential for many vital functions. Key roles of electrolytes in the body include:

• Balancing the amount of water in the body
• Maintaining the body's acid/base (pH) level
• Transporting nutrients into cells and removing waste products out of cells
• Supporting muscle and nerve function
• Regulating heart rate and rhythm
• Maintaining stable blood pressure
• Keeping bones and teeth healthy

The main electrolytes found in the body are:

• Sodium
• Potassium
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Chloride
• Phosphate
• Bicarbonate

These electrolytes come from foods and fluids consumed and are tightly regulated by the body to ensure proper physiological function. They are crucial for nerve impulses, muscle contractions, hydration, and acid-base balance. Imbalances can lead to health problems requiring medical attention. In summary, electrolytes are electrically charged minerals critical for numerous physiological processes critical to sustaining life and proper bodily function. They help keep fluids balanced and support muscle, nerve, and heart functions, among other roles. This comprehensive overview captures the essence of electrolytes in the body and their importance for health.