The Role of Potassium in Your Health

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Table of Contents

What is Potassium?

Potassium is a mineral and one of the seven essential macronutrients that the human body needs to support key processes.

Thousands of years ago, when people lived as gatherers and hunters, potassium was abundant in their diet, but sodium was scarce.

However, today our diet contains twice as much sodium as potassium due to the high amount of hidden salt in processed foods, not to mention the insufficient potassium content.

This imbalance, contrary to human evolution, is believed to contribute significantly to the prevalence of high blood pressure.

What is Potassium Good For?

About 98% of the potassium in the body is found within cells. 80% of it is in muscle cells, while the remaining 20% is in bones, liver, and red blood cells.

Potassium also functions as an electrolyte. Electrolytes help control electrical impulses in the body and assist in several fundamental functions, including:

  • Blood pressure regulation
  • Normal water balance
  • Muscle contractions
  • Nerve impulses
  • Digestion
  • Heart rhythm
  • pH balance

The Effects of Potassium

Potassium contributes to

  • Proper functioning of the nervous system
  • Normal muscle function
  • Maintaining normal blood pressure

Sources of Potassium

The most common food sources of potassium include:

  • Fruits, such as apricots, bananas, kiwis, oranges, and pineapples
  • Vegetables, such as leafy greens, carrots, and potatoes
  • Lean meats
  • Whole grains
  • Beans and nuts

In case of low potassium levels, a doctor may prescribe potassium as a dietary supplement, and in severe deficiencies, intravenous treatment may be necessary.

According to the WHO’s new guidelines, adults should consume less than 2000 mg of sodium and at least 3510 mg of potassium per day. In healthy individuals, the kidneys efficiently eliminate excess potassium, mainly through urine, so excessive potassium consumption is only potentially dangerous in certain conditions such as kidney failure.

How Does Potassium Deficiency Occur?

Although our diet usually provides sufficient potassium, certain conditions can lead to significant potassium loss, such as chronic vomiting, chronic diarrhea, or situations where we lose a lot of water. Potassium deficiency can also occur in inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis) that cause diarrhea and impaired nutrient absorption.

According to a study published in 2018, potassium deficiency or hypokalemia can lead to various health problems, including:

  • High blood pressure
  • Increased risk of kidney stone formation
  • Low calcium levels in bones

Role and use of potassium

Symptoms of Potassium Deficiency

In cases of mild potassium deficiency, the following symptoms may occur:

  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness

Supplementing Potassium with Dietary Supplements

In certain cases, it may be necessary to take potassium supplements in addition to nutrients obtained from food.

However, dietary supplements do not substitute for a healthy lifestyle and a varied, balanced diet.

The USA Medical Neuro Plus capsule contains potassium and over 22 types of vitamins and minerals and extracts of 8 valuable plants and fruits for the protection of the nervous system.

If you want to try other premium-quality products, please browse our online store for other dietary supplements!

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products/services are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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