Electrolytes: Sodium, Magnesium, and Potassium

Sodium

• Sodium is essential for blood control.
• Table salt (sodium chloride) is the most common form of ingested sodium.
• Kidneys regulate the body's sodium levels, with 98% of sodium loss occurring through urine.
• Aldosterone plays a role in sodium regulation by increasing tubular re-absorption.
• Hypernatremia is characterized by an excess of sodium in blood, leading to symptoms such as seizures, edema, and muscle weakness.

Magnesium

• Magnesium is found in hard water, spices, and various fruits and vegetables.
• It supports bone health and regulates cardiac function, muscle, and nerve activity.
• Deficiency symptoms include hypomagnesemia and neuromuscular irritability.
• Toxicity can lead to hypotension, respiratory failure, and cardiac disturbances.

Potassium

• Found in milk, meat, and certain fruits.
• Essential for normal heart functioning.
• Plays a role in skeletal muscle function.
• Required for many enzyme reactions, including Glycogenesis.
• Insulin increases potassium uptake by cells, potentially leading to low plasma potassium levels.
• Hypokalemia, characterized by low potassium, can result in paralysis and cardiac disturbances.
• Hyperkalemia, characterised by high potassium, can also lead to paralysis and cardiac disturbances.

Phosphorus

• Obtained from legumes, nuts, grains, and animal products.
• Absorption may be affected by phytic acid (found in plant-based diets) and dietary fiber.
• Trace elements should not be taken as dietary supplements due to potential toxicity.

Essential Amino Acids

• Must be obtained through diet as the body cannot synthesize them.
• Needed for protein synthesis, hormone production, and other vital functions.

Histidine

• Precursor to histamine, a neurotransmitter involved in immune response, digestion, and sleep-wake cycles.
• Supports red and white blood cell production and maintains the myelin sheath around nerve cells.

Isoleucine

• One of the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs).
• Vital for muscle metabolism, immune function, and energy production.
• Promotes muscle recovery, regulates blood sugar levels, and aids in wound healing.

Leucine

• A potent trigger for muscle protein synthesis.
• Supports muscle recovery, regulates blood sugar levels, and aids in wound healing.

Lysine

• Essential for collagen synthesis for skin, bone, and connective tissue.
• Supports immune function, calcium absorption, and hormone production.

Methionine

• Contains sulfur, essential for protein structure.
• Required for protein synthesis, cell growth, and formation of sulfur-containing compounds.

Phenylalanine

• Precursor for dopamine and norepinephrine.
• Plays a role in mood regulation, cognitive function, and alertness.

Threonine

• Required for protein synthesis and collagen production.
• Supports immune function, fat metabolism, and proper nervous system function.

Tryptophan

• Precursor for serotonin, a neurotransmitter regulating mood, sleep, and appetite.
• Supports relaxation, improves mood, and may benefit sleep quality.

Valine

• A BCAA crucial for muscle metabolism, tissue repair, and energy production.
• Supports muscle growth, tissue repair, and cognitive function.

Dietary Fiber Benefits

• Promotes digestive health, preventing constipation and supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
• Lowers LDL cholesterol and reduces heart disease risk.
• Helps regulate blood glucose levels.
• Promotes satiety and aids in weight management.

Plant-Based Supplements

• Derived from herbs and botanicals.
• Harness the therapeutic properties of plants.

Turmeric (Curcumin)

• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Supports joint health and may promote digestive health.
• Available in capsules, extracts, and teas.

Ginseng

• Adaptogen, supporting stress management, energy levels, and immune function.
• Available in capsules, teas, and extracts.

Echinacea

• Supports the immune system, particularly during cold and flu seasons.
• Available in capsules, tinctures, and teas.

Ashwagandha

• Adaptogen, potentially reducing stress, improving mood, and enhancing energy levels.
• Available in capsules, powders, and extracts.

Milk Thistle

• Supports liver health and detoxification.
• Available in capsules and extracts.

Garlic

• Supports cardiovascular and immune health.
• May have anti-inflammatory effects.
• Available in capsules and aged garlic extracts.

Valerian Root

• Promotes relaxation and sleep quality.
• Available in capsules, teas, and extracts.

Green Tea Extract

• Rich in antioxidants.
• Supports metabolism and may offer cognitive benefits.
• Available in capsules, teas, and extracts.

Dietary Supplement Regulation

• Pre-Market Notification or Approval: Some countries require pre-market notification or approval before a dietary supplement can be sold.
• Claims and Health Benefits: Claims made on dietary supplement labels must be supported by scientific evidence and comply with regulations.
• Maximum Dosages: Regulatory bodies often establish maximum allowable dosages to prevent excessive intake.
• Quality Control and Testing: Manufacturers are usually required to conduct testing to verify the identity, potency, purity, and composition of supplements.
• Post-Market Surveillance: Regulatory bodies may conduct post-market surveillance to monitor the safety and quality of supplements.
• Reporting Adverse Events: Systems are in place for consumers, healthcare professionals, and manufacturers to report adverse events.
• International Harmonization: Regulatory aspects are often harmonized to ensure consistency in safety and quality standards.
• Role of Health Authorities: Health authorities play a key role in setting and enforcing regulations.
• Differentiation Between Supplements and Drugs: Supplements are generally not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, cure, or prevent diseases.
• Variation By Country: Regulations for dietary supplements vary by country.
• Education and Consumer Awareness: Educational resources are provided to help consumers make informed choices.

Dietary Supplement Manufacturing and Labeling Regulations

• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Ensure consistent and quality-controlled manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and storage.
• Quality Control and Testing: Manufacturers conduct tests to verify the identity, potency, purity, and composition of ingredients.
• Adulteration and Contaminants: Inclusion of certain contaminants is prohibited.
• New Dietary Ingredients (NDIs): Manufacturers must notify the FDA and provide safety evidence for new ingredients not previously marketed.
• Supplement Facts Panel: Provides essential information about serving size, nutrient content, and daily values.
• Nutrition and Health Claims: Health claims must be substantiated by scientific evidence.
• Allergen Labeling: Common allergens must be clearly stated on the label.
• Directions for Use: Clear instructions on how to use the supplement must be provided.
• Identity and Contact Information: Manufacturer, distributor, or packer information should be included on the label.
• Disclaimer Statements: Statements disclaiming intended disease treatment are often included.
• Global Harmonization: Regulations vary globally.