While everyone experiences a certain degree of anxiety in response to stressful or fearful situations, it's abnormal to experience constant feelings of anxiety. If your levels of anxiety do not decrease when the stressful or fearful situation subsides, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Although there are numerous causes of anxiety, nutritional deficiencies may play an important role in the development of these disorders. In particular, a potassium deficiency may lead to increased feelings of anxiety, stress and tension.
Importance of Potassium
Potassium is a mineral and electrolyte required for a number of important physical and mental functions. According to Dr. Susan M. Lark in her book, "Easing Anxiety and Stress Naturally," potassium regulates the transfer of nutrients into cells, maintains the proper functioning of your nervous system and helps with electrochemical impulse transmission. Potassium is also required for skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, so it is crucial for the effective functioning of your cardiovascular and digestive systems. A potassium deficiency, known as hypokalemia, can result in increased anxiety as well as a number of physical health problems.
Symptoms of Anxiety
While there are several types of anxiety disorders recognized by the American Psychiatric Association in the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-IV-TR," there are several shared symptoms among these disorders. The main features of anxiety are uncontrollable worry, feelings of dread or apprehension, difficulty focusing, irritability, restlessness, physical symptoms such as trembling, insomnia, unexplained muscle aches and pains, dizziness, profuse sweating, muscle tension or fatigue, among others. Anxiety disorders are usually treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. As nutritional deficiencies may exacerbate anxiety, increasing attention is being given to the role of diet and dietary supplementation as a possible supplement or alternative to medication.
Potassium Deficiency and Anxiety
Potassium plays an important role in maintaining mental health. If your potassium levels are too low, you may experience increased anxiety, stress, fatigue and tension. Although rare, inadequate dietary intakes of potassium-rich foods may cause potassium deficiency. Additionally, according to Dr. Lark, excess use of coffee and alcohol can cause potassium loss and increase levels of anxiety. Interestingly, a study published in the April 1999 issue of the journal, "Psychiatric Research" examined potassium levels in patients suffering from acute psychosis. Among the other symptoms measured, tension and anxiety levels were found to be higher in the patients with potassium deficiency.
Considerations
Potassium is present naturally in a wide array of foods, including bananas, salmon, tomatoes and potatoes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, most people obtain adequate supplies of potassium from dietary sources. Potassium supplements should only be used under a doctor's supervision. Too much potassium can cause harmful side effects. Additionally, potassium can interact with a number of prescription medications. Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking before using a potassium supplement.
References
- "Easing Anxiety and Stress Naturally"; Susan M. Lark, MD; 1999
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-IV-TR"; American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- "Psychiatric Research"; Hypokalemia and Agitation in Acute Psychotic Patients; Kotaro Hattaa et al; April 1999
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Potassium
