What Do Dlectrolytes Actually Do? (IMAGE) American Chemical Society Caption Sports drink commercials love talking about them, but what are electrolytes and what happens if we don't have enough? Electrolytes are salts that we need in our body. They help control the movement of water in our cells along with vital nerve pulses. Sweating is one way you lose electrolytes. This video reveals the ins and outs of electrolytes and whether you should reach for a sports drink after running around the block. Find out in the latest Reactions video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhLHtuZ3VOI&feature=youtu.be. Credit The American Chemical Society Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.