Important Information about maintaining good brain and heart health with an ED
Because of restriction and binge/purge cycle one can lose electrolytes and can also cause low sodium and low glucose. If you still have a fear of eating and food and are not comfortable with eating here are some things to do if you are feeling signs of low electrolyte levels.
Low Glucose: Signs of low glucose include: dizzy spells, headaches, and fainting. It is important for your body to have glucose because it is a basic unit of energy and can help you get through the day. Some things I use to keep my glucose up is eating a Hi-Chew about 26 calories. The Hi-Chew is a treat and the burst of sweetness and flavor can help ground you. I also use glucose tablets about 15 calories per tablet to instantly raise my glucose in emergencies. Keeping glucose up is vital so make sure you are getting the proper nutrition.
Low Sodium: Signs of low sodium include headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue. Sodium is used in neural reactions to help pass impulses through the body increasing alertness, functioning, and preformance in activities. In order to fill this electrolyte I use Ultima powder, a zero calorie water additive, they have many flavors and they even taste like a regular sugary drink with only zero calories. If you dont feel comfortable with flavoring, I use warm water mixed with about a 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of table salt. It is salty but if you chug it you can barely taste the salt. Keeping sodium levels up is very important to the overall health and well-being of your body.
Low electrolytes: Electrolytes are important in carrying out many bodily functions such as proper heart and brain health. If you are without electrolytes for an extended amount of time your body will start to go insane and wreck havoc on your digestive system. To stop this, I typically drink Propel, a zero calorie option to gatorade or Ultima powder added to water. One can always take a vitamin supplement the normal calories for 2 gummies is 25 calories.
Glucose, Sodium, and Electrolytes are very important to normal everyday functions and maintaining normal levels can help reduce the side effects of an eating disorder but also ensure that your brain and heart are functioning at a normal level. Passing out and having seizures from low levels is not fun and can result in death. Share to potentially save a life.
