Helps control the body’s water balance
Studies suggest that Potassium may:• Helps Control the body’s water balance• Helps lower blood pressure• Lowers risk of stroke• Helps keep normal kidney functionWhat is Potassium and what does it do?Potassium is a mineral that helps the kidneys function normally. It also plays a key role in cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle contraction, making it an important nutrient for normal heart, digestive, and muscular function. A diet high in potassium from fruits, vegetables, and legumes is generally recommended for optimum heart health.Potassium plays an integral role in the human body in controlling the water balance of the body. It works in conjunction with sodium in order to keep water levels in the body consistent. Potassium is also necessary for proper functioning of nerve impulses and the contraction of all muscle in the human body and also helps to maintain a regular, normal heart rhythm. Potassium’s other essential function in the human body is to store carbohydrates, which then are broken down for energy.The dietary sources for potassium are vast and varied. However, the absolute best source of dietary potassium can be found in the consumption of green leafy vegetables. Other excellent sources are bananas and oranges. Along with those fruits, potassium can be found in good amounts in vegetables such as potatoes and beans. Milk products are also rich in this mineral, as are most lean meats. However, potassium levels in foods are often decreased due to the processing methods of most manufactured food products.Who needs it and what are symptoms of deficiency?Potassium deficiency does occur with the primary manifestation of the deficiency being in muscle weakness and fatigue. Sufferers of potassium deficiency may also experience symptoms such as dizziness and mental confusion. In extreme cases, the starvation of potassium sources in the human body can cause impairment of nerve and muscle functioning which results in abnormal heart rhythms. Additionally, potassium deficiency can cause the musculoskeletal system to essentially freeze up therefore constricting the bowel and causing constipation.Are there any side effects?Gastrointestinal symptoms are the most common side effects of potassium supplements, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. Taking potassium with meals or taking a microencapsulated form of potassium may reduce gastrointestinal side effects. The most serious adverse reaction to potassium supplementation is hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia occurs when potassium intake exceeds the capacity of the kidneys to eliminate it. Acute or chronic renal (kidney) failure, the use of potassium-sparing diuretics, and insufficient aldosterone secretion (hypoaldosteronism) may result in the accumulation of excess potassium due to decreased urinary potassium excretion.
