Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance
Posted on December 26, 2011 | Healthy Nutrition.
There is a fine line in having the correct “balance” in terms of our water, salts, minerals, and electrolytes. Whether you have too little fluid or too much water, both situations have consequences, some of which could be fatal. First of all, electrolytes are electronically charged particles. They conduct electric current, help keep our pH in balance, and are involved with how fluids pass in and out of cells. They help regulate the neuromuscular, excretory and endocrine systems. The main electrolytes are Potassium, Calcium, Sodium, and Magnesium. Chloride, Phosphate and Bicarbonate are others.
On its own, our bodies will try to maintain a state of equilibrium, or “homeostatis”. When it senses not enough fluid coming in, our brains will tell our kidneys to hold onto whatever fluid it can, thus the lack of urination. As a result, our blood gets thicker (viscosity increases), and our heart has to work harder to push blood around our bodies. So our blood pressure increases.
Other symptoms can creep up on you too, such as dizziness, lethargy, and confusion. Thirst is an obvious symptom. However, I’ve been told that once you are thirsty, “it is too late”… meaning you are already mildly dehydrated. As it progresses, you can actually see sunken eyes, and the skin will not fall back into position, if pinched. (You can also have detect this in pets)… This is also called “Hypernatremia”.
The opposite situation can also happen. You can drink too much water, and can deplete your sodium levels. This is known as “Hyponatremia”. This is a very common electrolyte disorder. After excessively perspiring, and drinking too much water (known as “water intoxication”), you will impair your kidneys and adrenal glands. This is even more serious as it can lead to seizures and coma.
If you want. you can calculate how much fluid and electrolytes you need per your body weight. A person of say 130 lbs. would need 25 ounces of water, and 2-3 Pedialytes per hour. (Pedialyte, and Endurolyte are two alternatives to Gatorade). Another alternative is to drink white grape juice in place of Pedialyte.
Having a handy hydration system in place will encourage you to drink more fluids. Also, paying attention to your body, as it is trying to tell you something. Don’t ignore those “little messages” that say, “I’m thirsty”, or I need to take a break. Once restored to “homeostatis”, our bodies will perform much more efficiently, and enable you to fulfill your goals.
Nutrition Is Critical After Heart Surgery
Posted on December 24, 2011 | Healthy Nutrition.
Nutrition is critical after heart surgery a healthy diet is an important part of a healthy life, but at no time is nutrition more important than following surgery, especially open-heart surgery. Nutrition guidelines for patients after open-heart surgery are divided into two phases: acute (immediately following surgery) and long term. In the acute phase, it is normal to have a poor appetite. Patients are encouraged to eat small, frequent meals until their appetites return to normal. A registered dietician will provide basic diet instructions based on medical history and the surgery.
A short time after leaving the hospital, the long-term phase begins. Patients are encouraged to make healthy food choices to prevent further damage to the heart and the surrounding arteries. The following are commonsense tips for eating a healthy diet after surgery: Eat a diet that is low in fat, saturated fat and cholesterol. A diet low in fats and cholesterol is recommended to prevent further build-up in the arteries. Animal products are a significant source of saturated fat and cholesterol in our diets so choose carefully. Skim milk, skinless chicken breast and fish are lean food choices as well as fruits, vegetables and grain products. Enjoy plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Choose at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day to supply the body with lots of vitamins and minerals.
Fruits and vegetables are high in fibre, as are whole grains such as oats, whole wheat bread and whole grain breakfast cereals. These foods provide the foundation for a healthy diet according to the Food Guide Pyramid. Maintain or achieve a healthy weight. Carrying around excess weight can cause an added strain on the heart a healthy diet and exercise can help control weight. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program. Go easy on salt and sodium. Many people eat much more sodium than their bodies need. Too much sodium may cause fluid retention and negatively affect blood pressure. Eating fewer processed foods can significantly reduce sodium intake. Use sugar in moderation. Sugar provides no nutrition or value to our diets, just empty calories. Too much may increase triglycerides, blood sugars and cause weight gain.