Why? You guessed it: because they are high in electrolytes that help your body rehydrate and replenish its osmotic balance faster. In laboratory animals, dehydration can happen during shipment and transportation, surgeries, studies or sickness. Electrolytes help regulate muscle, nerve and organ functions, fluid balance and many other biological functions. Electrolyte imbalances are usually associated with fluid loss and dehydration.įor humans, after a hard workout or when recovering from the flu, we are recommended to consume sports drinks such as Gatorade ® or Pedialyte ®, or chicken broth. If the balance of electrolytes is disturbed, disorders can develop and vital body systems can be affected. We get them from what we eat and drink. Electrolytes maintain normal fluid levels in the fluid compartments by a process called osmosis: if the electrolyte concentration is high in one compartment, fluid moves into that compartment, and vice versa (2). But, what are electrolytes? What are their roles? And, how can you help make sure that your lab animals get the electrolytes they need in case of dehydration? Electrolytes – General Functionsīody fluids contain electrolytes, electrically-charged minerals that help regulate osmotic pressure in cells and maintain the function of all the organs, including muscles and nerves. How is this balance of fluids maintained in the body? Electrolytes play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis within the body. The body water is contained within 3 major compartments: intracellular (within the cells), interstitial (between the cells), and the blood. This number varies amongst species, with 63% for the beagle and 80% for the mouse, for example (1). The body of all animals is made up of approximately 70% water.

Body fluid compartments youtube osmosis