There are a lot of reasons why your heart might not feel like it’s beating the way it should. It could be stress or it could be that second cup of coffee. But sometimes it’s something more internal going on like an electrolyte imbalance. That might not be the first thing you think of when your heart skips a beat, but it is one of the more overlooked causes. So how does electrolyte imbalance affect the heart?

The answer comes down to the role electrolytes play in your body. These are the minerals that carry electric charges, which help keep your muscles and nerves functioning properly. Since your heart is a muscle that depends on electrical signals to beat regularly, when your levels of potassium, calcium, magnesium, or sodium are off, your heart may start to react in strange ways. Some people feel palpitations or fluttering, while others may feel more fatigued or dizzy than usual.

The effects of electrolyte imbalance

The effects of electrolyte imbalance on the heart usually come down to how it messes with those electric signals. Too little potassium, for example, can cause arrhythmias, which means the heart might beat too fast or too slow. Calcium plays a key role in muscle contraction, so a deficiency can lead to weakness in the heart’s pumping action. Low magnesium is also linked to irregular rhythms, and sodium imbalances can lead to changes in blood pressure that make the heart work harder than it should.

These symptoms might show up during intense exercise, while resting, or after being sick or dehydrated. Even sweating too much or not drinking enough water during hot weather can throw your levels off just enough to make your heart feel off. In many cases, staying properly hydrated and eating a balanced diet can go a long way. Foods rich in potassium, like bananas and spinach, and those with magnesium or calcium, like nuts and dairy, can help your body hold onto that crucial balance.

A small shift in electrolyte levels usually won’t cause serious problems, but when the imbalance becomes more extreme, the effects can be a lot more noticeable. Some people might feel lightheaded or short of breath, or they might feel a pounding in their chest. If you have a history of heart issues, it’s especially important to be aware of any new or unusual symptoms, even if they seem minor.

People taking certain medications or managing other health conditions are more likely to experience changes in their electrolyte levels. This is why it’s helpful to stay on top of hydration and make sure you’re getting enough minerals from your diet, especially if you’re feeling off.

Conclusion

How your heart relies on electrical signals to beat properly. When the balance is off, the rhythm can be too. Fortunately, most imbalances can be corrected once they’re identified. If you feel like something is off with your heartbeat and nothing else seems to explain it, it might be worth talking to a doctor and checking in on your electrolytes.