Electrolytes

Electrolyte Panel

Unit: mEq/LID: ELEC001

What This Test Measures

Sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate; fluid/acid-base balance

Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range

Conventional "Normal"

Na 136-145, K 3.5-5.0, Cl 98-107, CO2 23-29 mEq/L

Your doctor says you're "fine" anywhere in this range

Functional Optimal

Na 138-142, K 4.0-4.5, Cl 103-107, CO2 25-30 mEq/L

This is where you actually feel great

The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.

Gabriel's Take

Electrolytes must be balanced. Functional optimal: mid-range for all. Na 138-142 (not 136-145), K 4.0-4.5 (not 3.5-5.0). Low K (<4.0) = arrhythmia risk, muscle cramps, fatigue. High K (>5.0) = dangerous arrhythmia risk. CO2 (bicarbonate) reflects acid-base balance: low = acidosis, high = alkalosis. Gabriel monitors electrolytes in fatigue, heart issues, and adrenal dysfunction.

When This Test Is High

High Na: dehydration; High K: kidney failure, meds; Low CO2: metabolic acidosis

When This Test Is Low

Low Na: overhydration, SIADH; Low K: diuretics, diarrhea; High CO2: alkalosis

Related Conditions

Dehydration, kidney disease, heart failure, acid-base disorders

Recommended Follow-Up

Correct electrolyte imbalances; identify cause (diet, meds, kidney, adrenal)