Today in our program, we’ll answer the question, do you really need electrolyte supplements? Next, five essential nutrients for patients on GLP-1 medications. And for our last piece, embracing intellectual humility can boost your mental health. Welcome to Health Channel News.
So to start, electrolytes are becoming a big buzzword in health from athletes to influencers. Everyone seems to be promoting them, but do we really need these supplements in our daily lives? This is the question posed in an article in The Guardian. Electrolytes are essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. They help regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Most of us get plenty of electrolytes from the foods we eat. A healthy diet usually covers our needs.
It’s a different story, though, for athletes or people sweating heavily. They may lose more electrolytes and benefit from supplements. According to one professor quoted in the article, electrolytes are essential for many functions in the body, including assisting in maintaining fluid levels, helping heart and nerve function, and regulating blood pressure. However, for most people, daily electrolyte supplements aren’t necessary, according to another expert in the article. If you are eating a variety of foods like fruits and vegetables, you’re likely getting enough electrolytes. Alcohol and caffeine can cause dehydration and affect electrolyte levels. Stress can also do the same. But a third expert quoted said, even in these cases, a balanced diet usually keeps everything in check.
So why the sudden surge in electrolyte supplements? The Guardian asserts that some companies and influencers may be promoting them more than we need. One specialist in kidney health expressed concern that many products contain sodium and sugar, things most of us already get too much of in our diet. The article also notes the main way we lose electrolytes is through body fluids. For otherwise healthy people, the biggest risk of dehydration comes from a bout of sickness or diarrhea. It should be acknowledged that other, more chronic conditions can also cause problems. The bottom line, according to the article, if you’re eating well and drinking enough water, you probably don’t need extra electrolytes.
Next, an article in Medscape written by registered dietitian Gene Hanks can help those taking medications like Ozempic. Experts are warning that some common side effects of GLP-1 medications like fatigue, muscle loss, and even bone weakness could be linked to nutrient deficiencies. But with the right foods and supplements, these problems may be avoidable. The article notes that most, if not all, of these side effects can be minimized by ensuring proper nutrition.
First up is protein. The author explains that without constant reinforcement, many patients wouldn’t consume enough protein to maintain their baseline lean body mass. The article also notes that daily protein intake must be spread out over multiple mini-meals. This is because of the effects GLP-1 medications may have on appetite and digestion.
Next up is fiber. People on GLP-1 medications can get constipated. That’s because they’re eating less and their digestion slows down. The author suggests adding fiber-rich foods like beans, berries, and broccoli to your diet.
Third on the list is vitamin B12. These medications can lower your B12 levels, especially if you don’t eat enough animal products. The article notes that low B12 can contribute to fatigue.
Next up, calcium. When you lose weight, it can affect your bones. The author recommends getting enough calcium, especially for postmenopausal women. You can find it in dairy products, leafy greens, or even tofu.
Finally, there’s vitamin D. The article explains that many people with obesity already have low vitamin D levels. It’s crucial for calcium absorption and bone health. Since vitamin D is hard to get from food alone, many patients may need supplements. Doctors and dietitians can help monitor your nutritional needs through blood tests and body scans. If you are on GLP-1 medications, they can work with you to make sure you’re staying healthy. Before making any changes to your diet or supplements, talk to your healthcare provider. They can guide you based on your individual needs.
Finally, there’s growing evidence that being humble about what we don’t know can benefit not just our minds, but our overall health. A recent article from The Washington Post highlights how intellectual humility—that’s recognizing our own limitations—can improve both learning and relationships, which are key to mental well-being. Psychologists say intellectual humility helps us step away from rigid thinking. One psychology professor quoted in the article explains that it helps you overcome this very categorical black-and-white thinking that we are often succumbing to. This can make us less defensive in arguments and more open to different perspectives, which can reduce stress.
In social situations, research shows that people who practice intellectual humility are also more curious and open to learning. Another professor in the article says, if somebody realizes, “Okay, the way I think is not perfect,” they’re more likely to be able to make corrections and overcome some of those things. Studies show that intellectually humble individuals tend to have more general knowledge and are less likely to fall for misinformation or conspiracy theories, which is important for mental clarity and decision-making.
Intellectual humility can improve our relationships as well. People who are open to other perspectives are better listeners, leading to less conflict and more understanding. Another professor from Rowan University adds that humility can actually make us look more competent and trustworthy. The article does note that being too humble in high-pressure situations might not always be helpful, but in everyday life, practicing intellectual humility could help reduce stress and improve mental health. Simple practices like reflecting before a conversation or keeping a gratitude journal have been shown to foster intellectual humility. These small steps could help us become more open-minded and improve our interactions.
That’s all we have for today. As always, thank you so much for joining us on Health Channel News.
