Nutrients Essential to Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to fluid and electrolyte balance including definitions of terms, physiological functions, and consequences of imbalances.

What is a substance composed of molecules that move freely and conform to the shape of their container?

A fluid.

How much of an adult's body fluid is held within the walls of the cells?

Two-thirds.

What type of fluids are cerebrospinal fluid, mucus, and synovial fluid?

Tissue or interstitial fluids.

Lean tissues are more than fluid by weight, compared to in fat tissue.

70%; 10–20%.

What are some critical functions of fluids?

maintaining blood volume and pressure.

What are mineral salts that are able to dissolve in water and form charged particles called?

Electrolytes.

What are the primary positively charged intracellular/extracellular electrolytes?

Sodium and potassium.

Of the four major minerals, which two are positively charged and which two are negatively charged?

Sodium and potassium (+); chloride and phosphorus (−).

What happens when strenuous exercise is accompanied by rapid and high water intake?

Extracellular fluid becomes diluted.

What key role do sodium and potassium play?

Generation of nerve impulses.

Where do water and solutes go?

Where solutes go, water will follow.

Where is the body's command center for regulating fluids located?

In the hypothalamus.

What two primary sources contribute the fluid we need each day?

Dietary intake and metabolism.

What does sensible water loss refer to?

Noticeable water loss.

What triggers the thirst mechanism?

Increased salt in blood or a decrease in blood pressure and blood volume.

Is it true that eight glasses (8 oz) of fluid each day is the recommended amount for everyone?

False.

What is high consumption linked to?

Increased risk of hypertension.

Which food is highest in sodium?

1 oz salted potato chips.

What does hyperkalemia refer to?

High blood potassium levels.

What is dehydration defined as?

A serious health problem caused when fluid intake is less than output.

What is a potentially fatal heat illness that athletes are vulnerable to?

Heat stroke.

How is dehydration classified?

According to the percentage of weight loss exclusively due to loss of fluid.

What is one major cause of hypertension in individuals?

High salt intake.

What are typical symptoms of hypokalemia?

Confusion, loss of appetite, and muscle weakness.

What causes increased water loss when drinking alcoholic beverages?

Alcohol acts as a diuretic.