Excessive sweating can lead to a deficiency in which of the following electrolytes?

Excessive sweating results in the loss of various electrolytes through the skin, primarily sodium and chloride, but it can also lead to the depletion of other essential minerals and electrolytes such as calcium, zinc, and iron.

When the body sweats heavily, the loss of fluids can disrupt the balance of these electrolytes. For example, calcium is vital for muscle function and nerve transmission, and sweating can reduce levels in the body, especially if the diet lacks sufficient calcium. Similarly, zinc plays multiple roles in the body, including immune function and protein synthesis. Heavy sweating can lead to its loss, particularly in athletes or during intense physical activity. Iron, also crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, could eventually become deficient in individuals who sweat excessively, especially if their diet doesn’t compensate for the loss.

Thus, the correct choice, indicating that all the mentioned electrolytes can be affected, reflects the potential for deficiencies across these essential nutrients during episodes of excessive sweating.