Potassium Health Benefits That You Need To Know

There are many potassium health benefits, if you are watching your blood pressure you may want to think about this mineral as it has a postive effect on this type of condition. Potassium is the most abundant mineral that can be found in the body followed by calcium and then phosphorus, it is a electrolyte.

Other electrolytes are sodium and chloride which are all needed in balance to be able to perform various functions in the body.Potassium is mostly found inside the cells and is used to conduct nerve impulses, initiate muscle contractions, and also regulate blood pressure and heartbeat that is why it is important to know more about potassium health benefits to help prevent a deficiency.

Other potassium health benefits is that it controls the amount of fluid within the cells where sodium regulates the amount of fluid outside the cells, so these two minerals work in balance.It is also needed to convert blood sugar into stored form of energy that is held in reserve by the liver and muscles.

Studies have shown that people who get plenty of potassium have lower blood pressure than those who are deficient in this mineral.Although it has a positive effect on blood pressure it has also shown that it can reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.

What Happens If You Don't Get Enough Potassium?

Potassium can be found in many fruits and vegetables, so it very uncommon for a person to not to get enough of this mineral.But deficiencies do occur if a person takes a diuretic frequently which reduces fluid levels in the body, or if you have an illness that causes vomiting or diarrhoea.The symptoms of a potassium deficiency are muscle weakness, irritability and tiredness.If your potassium is not replaced it can effect your heart.

Can I Get Too Much Of This Mineral?

Potassium toxicity is very unlikely as most people safely consume at least 18g per day. This can only occur if you have a kidney disorder or have taken supplements.Symptoms of an overload are similar to a deficiency such as irregular heartbeat and muscle fatigue.

For most people a supplement is not required unless you are on diuretic medication.It is always better to get the required amount of this mineral through your diet.Foods that are high in this mineral are bananas,figs, apricots, unpeeled potatoes and also nuts and seeds.You should also eat your vegetables steamed not boiled as it decreases the content of potassium.As you can see there are many potassium health benefits that can help if you suffer from high blood pressure or those who have a risk of heart attack or stroke.