What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are essential minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and play a critical role in maintaining fluid balance, regulating nerve function, and supporting muscle contraction. These minerals include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride, and they help control the movement of fluids in and out of cells, tissues, and organs.

Maintaining the right balance of electrolytes is crucial for overall health, as disruptions can lead to dehydration, muscle weakness, or alterations in heart rhythm. The body's ability to regulate these minerals is vital for functions like hydration, blood pressure regulation, and maintaining the body's acid-base balance, which illustrates why identifying them correctly as minerals that help maintain fluid balance is key.

The other options describe different biological components or functions that do not encompass the role of electrolytes: enzymes are involved in digestion, vitamins have various roles including energy production, and proteins are significant for muscle repair rather than fluid balance.