Berkeley: Sweating it out on a treadmill, or racing to finish a half marathon, a
runner might risk a potentially dangerous buildup of electrolytes in
her blood.In
theory a “sweat sensor” could monitor electrolyte levels in real time
or track diabetes risk by measuring quick spikes in blood sugar levels.
Such a device could find wide use, and make an impact in the
marketplace. Current tests monitor these telltale signs only
periodically, missing short-term fluctuations or suddenly spiking
concentrations. But in a Cory Hall lab that’s been converted
into a high tech mini-fitness center, researchers can now trace these
metabolic changes second by second in a substance any good work out
produces: sweat.