Understanding Potassium
Few people realize the need of potassium in our body. Understanding potassium and its effects on your body can help make wiser choices about your diet – and that can result in better health for you.
Potassium is needed for balancing the pH of the body, for normal water balance in the body, for normal muscle growth and for maintaining a healthy nervous system and brain function. Potassium is classified as an electrolyte. The body needs balanced amounts of electrolytes, such as potassium, sodium, magnesium, and others to keep the blood chemistry at the right levels so that the body can function at its optimum.
Fortunately, Potassium is a dietary mineral that is normally quite abundant in foods, so we get a sufficient share of potassium in our daily meals. However, there are instances when the potassium intake has to be restricted due to illness, while others may actually need to increase their intake.
People with kidney disease are at risk of having too much potassium in the blood. The weak kidneys are incapable of getting rid of the extra potassium, thus resulting in an excess amount of potassium being retained in the body. A high level of potassium can lead to irregular heartbeats. On the other hand, people with high blood pressure are at increased risk for having low potassium levels because some high blood pressure medications can deplete potassium levels in the blood.
Vomiting, diarrhea, and eating disorders can also result in low levels of potassium. Some types of laxatives and diuretics have been found to cause low potassium as well. Low potassium is characterized by weakness, fatigue, constipation, and muscle cramps. A low potassium level can also affect the heartbeat. There are blood tests that can show your potassium level.
You should talk with your doctor about monitoring your potassium levels if you take high blood pressure medication or have a condition that may cause low potassium. Depending on your potassium levels and medical history, your doctor may either restrict your potassium intake or encourage you to take more potassium than normal.
Aside from bananas which are generally associated with potassium, there are a great number of other foods that are high in potassium, such as dried apricots, cantaloupe, beets, figs, honeydew melon, and orange juice. If you need potassium, you will be able to find sufficient potassium in your meals.
However, if you should require less potassium, you should secure a list of food that contains potassium so you will know what should be avoided or at least taken in moderation. The doctor or a nutritionist can help you establish a healthy diet for your specific condition. As you can see, understanding potassium, its affects and your unique needs can have a great impact on your overall health. As you make wise decisions about your eating habits you will help your body work better.
