What do electrolytes do for your body?

Electrolytes are essential minerals found in the body fluids that carry an electric charge and play a crucial role in numerous bodily functions. One of their primary functions is to help maintain the body's fluid balance. This is vital for ensuring that cells function properly, as electrolytes regulate the movement of water in and out of cells, organs, and tissues, which helps to keep hydration levels stable.

In addition to fluid balance, electrolytes are involved in muscle contractions, nerve signaling, and maintaining acid-base balance. When electrolyte levels are imbalanced, it can lead to various health issues, such as dehydration or muscle cramping, showing just how significant their role is in overall health.

The other options, while related to bodily functions and health, do not directly pertain to the primary role of electrolytes. For instance, aiding in digestion is more related to digestive enzymes and stomach acids than to electrolytes. Similarly, metabolism involves a complex set of chemical processes that are not solely dependent on electrolytes, and energy levels can be influenced by several factors, including nutrition and sleep, rather than being a direct function of electrolytes.