Are Electrolytes in Water Bad for Kids?

Function of Electrolytes

• Electrolytes are present in substances such as sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium. They carry a small electrical charge through the body that helps to regulate muscle and nerve function, blood pH, blood pressure and hydration and also rebuilds damaged tissue. Medical experts reporting for Medical News Today and The Permanente Medical Group point out that an imbalance of electrolytes in the body can cause adverse health conditions. Electrolytes can be lost through sweating or when a child is ill and loses liquids from his body.

Advice of Pediatricians

• Experts with the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasize that plain water should be the main source of hydration for children. The AAP also encourages parents to understand the differences between drinks containing electrolytes and energy drinks that contain stimulants like caffeine. The consumption of energy drinks is strongly discouraged for children. The AAP explains that if your child participates in vigorous athletic activities and exerts a lot of energy, drinking water with added electrolytes is an acceptable form of re-hydration and replenishment, but that plain water is still the best choice.

Electrolyte Overload

• One electrolyte in particular, potassium, has the potential to harm your child if consumed in great excess. Since potassium is found in many of the foods that children commonly eat as a part of their regular diet -- bananas, raisins, milk and beans -- allowing your child to drink electrolyte-enhanced beverages on a regular basis may not be beneficial. The University of Maryland Medical Center website postulates that excess amounts of potassium can cause an abnormal heart rhythm, muscle weakness and a slowed heart rate. Drugs.com reports that the effectiveness and safety of electrolyte supplements for children has not been confirmed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Use caution when administering higher-than-average amounts of electrolytes to your children.

Healthy Alternatives

• Pediatricians through the AAP assert that a well-balanced diet, along with plenty of plain water, is the best route for your child's proper electrolyte balance. Sports dietitian Nancy Clark, R.D., offers suggestions for natural ways to ensure adequate levels of electrolytes in the body. Eating foods like bananas, beans, lentils, raisins, peanut butter, tomatoes, celery and leafy greens is a beneficial way to replenish electrolytes lost through physical exertion and sweating.