Potassium
Potassium Benefits
Regulates Body Fluids
Maintaining the right fluid balance is essential for the survival of cells in our body. The liquid in our cells is called intracellular fluid (ICF), while the one between cells is called extracellular fluid (ECF). Both the ICF and the ECF must be equally balanced by the electrolytes so that the cells do not shrink or burst due to the imbalance of electrolytes.
Potassium is considered one of the most important electrolytes in our body that help in regulating the body fluid – which in turn keeps us hydrated and our kidneys functional. Thus, ensuring a diet that is rich in potassium is essential for a hydrated body.
Boosts The Nervous System
The presence of potassium in our bodies helps the critical function of relaying nerve signals from the brain to the body. Potassium helps in changing the charge of the cells that activate the nerve impulse carrying important signals to and from the brain. Thus, a deficiency of potassium in our body can result in weak nerve signals.
Reduces High Blood Pressure
One of the core causes of high blood pressure is high levels of sodium. This renders the heart weak to numerous heart problems. Potassium in our body is claimed to reduce the blood pressure levels by removing excess sodium. Research has also revealed that when people who are already suffering from hypertension, consume a potassium-rich diet, their blood pressure decreased significantly.
May Help Prevent Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is the abysmal condition of deteriorating bones characterized by hollowness. Bone health and its deteriorating condition are linked with low levels of calcium deposits in the bones.[r96] Potassium, however, shows an interesting phenomenon of preventing osteoporosis.[r95] It is revealed that the intake of potassium in our diet helps regulate the body fluid and prevents the over-discharge of calcium through urine.
Reduces Risk of Kidney Stones
Daily Intake For Potassium
Healthy Foods High In Potassium
- All food nutrient profiles are based on a weight of 100 grams.
- * RDI values are based on a diet of 2,000 calories a day (Female, Age 19-30).
- All foods are vegetarian.
Sources
- r127. Self Nutrition Data
- r97. Nutritional Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis)
- r96. Calcium and osteoporosis
- r95. Potassium salts aid bone health, limit osteoporosis risk, new research finds
- r94. Extracellular Potassium Homeostasis: Insights from Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis
- r93. Potassium Rich Foods
- r92. Physiology of fluid balance
- r91. Effect of increased potassium intake on cardiovascular risk factors and disease: systematic review and meta-analyses