Potassium is an element that functions as an electrolyte, or a substance that conducts electricity in the body. As an electrolyte, potassium aids in regulation of fluid balance in the body, muscle contraction, nerve function and heart function. Potassium is found in foods such as bananas, dried fruits and dairy products. Hypokalemia, a lack of potassium in the body, can cause symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps, stomach pains and irregular heartbeat.
Fluid Loss
According to MayoClinic.com, hypokalemia can be caused by excessive loss of bodily fluids through the urinary and digestive tracts, such as in urine, vomit and diarrhea. In addition, excessive sweating can lower potassium levels in the body.
Use of Certain Medications
Antibiotics and other medications can also cause low potassium levels. Antibiotics such as carbenicillin, gentamicin and amphotericin B -- as well as diuretics prescribed for high blood pressure, which cause urine loss -- can deplete potassium levels in the body. Excessive use of laxatives can also lead to hypokalemia.
Various Disorders and Diseases
Hypokalemia is also caused by various diseases and disorders. Eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia, with their excessive vomiting, use of laxatives and diuretics, and starvation, can lead to hypokalemia and other electrolyte imbalances. In addition, diseases that affect kidney function, such as Liddle's syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, Fanconi's syndrome and Bartter's syndrome, may cause excretion of too much potassium from the body and can lead to hypokalemia.
Licorice
According to MedlinePlus, low potassium in the body may also be caused by ingestion of large amounts of licorice or products such as herbal teas and chewing tobaccos containing licorice made with glycyrrhetinic acid. A lack of potassium in the diet, although a contributing factor in low potassium levels in the body, is usually not the primary cause of hypokalemia.
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