Electrolytes are basically tools of homeostasis used by the body to maintain balance. Electrolytes have their name because they are able to move in and out of cells in order to facilitate the transmission of electric signals within the body. Some electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium carry positive charges, while others such as chloride, bicarbonate, phosphate and sulfate carry negative charges.
Muscle tissue contraction and nervous system transmission are dependent on electrolytes to send and receive messages.
This ability to transmit electrical signals is due to the electron distribution imbalance. These little messengers play an important role in the proper functioning of the human body.