You can develop potassium-loss syndrome if you follow a diet that is consistently low in potassium. Kidney disease, excessive vomiting and dehydration can also lead to this syndrome. Low-blood potassium is termed hypokalemia, and it can cause health complications.
Importance Of Potassium
Your potassium level is important, because your body uses this mineral for a variety of essential functions. For example, potassium helps to maintain your acid and base balance and is important in the buildup of muscle tissue, protein production, metabolism and heart function. Potassium-loss syndrome can impair these functions.
Hypokalemia Symptoms
Symptoms of hypokalemia can include paralysis, muscle weakness and spasms, fatigue, abnormal heart rhythm, constipation and even a breakdown of your muscle fibers. Hypokalemia is diagnosed through a blood test. The ideal blood-potassium level is 3.7 to 5.2 mEq/L. A level below this can lead to symptoms.
Potassium and Diet
One way to avoid low-blood potassium is to follow a healthy diet. Potassium is found in many foods, including red meat, chicken, fish, fruits, vegetables, milk, yogurt and nuts. The amount that you need each day is called the adequate intake, or AI. The AI for potassium is 4,700 mg per day for adults.
Considerations
Medical conditions are the most common causes of a potassium-loss syndrome. Therefore, if you are suffering from symptoms of hypokalemia, talk with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to determine the cause. In addition, evaluate your diet, to ensure that you are getting adequate potassium. If you diet lacks potassium, consider a multivitamin that helps you meet your daily requirements.
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