Importance Of Potassium To Humans

Potassium is one of the body's most important minerals. Potassium deficiency, or hypokalemia, causes a variety of problems, such as fatigue, muscle weakness and cramps, bloating, constipation and abdominal pain. If you are concerned about your potassium intake, consult a doctor before taking supplements because excessive levels can also cause undesirable side effects.

Electrolyte Functions

Potassium is classified as an electrolyte, which means it carries an electrical charge. Along with sodium and chloride, potassium helps transfer energy between the body's cells. This energy transfer ensures that bodily functions, such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission and heart function, are allowed to occur normally. When you sweat, electrolytes are released from the body and need to be replenished to maintain proper water levels in the body, as well as blood pH and muscle activity.

Effects on Sodium

Potassium also helps balance sodium levels in the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most Americans consume more sodium than they actually need. Excessive sodium levels contribute to high blood pressure, stroke and other health problems. Adequate potassium intake helps reduce the negative effects of excessive sodium consumption. Research has yet to discover the exact cause of these effects. One hypothesis is that potassium increases the amount of sodium excreted in urine, thereby reducing high levels in the body.

Disease Prevention and Treatment

Some studies indicate that adequate potassium intake contributes to a lower risk of stroke, high blood pressure and bone-related conditions such as osteoporosis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. High potassium intake can also reduce the chances of developing kidney stones, due to its effects on calcium excretion in urine. Potassium supplements are also used to aid in the treatment of high blood pressure. However, studies regarding this use of potassium have produced conflicting results.

Sources

As noted by Dr. Elson Haas of the Periodic Paralysis News Desk, the body naturally contains more potassium than sodium. However, the excessive sodium consumption of the average American diet makes it even more important to obtain adequate amounts of potassium from dietary sources. Good sources of potassium include vine-ripened fruit such as bananas, leafy green vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, wheat germ, fish and meat. Alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, sugar and diuretic drugs decrease potassium absorption, so be sure to eat a variety of potassium-rich foods if you consume these products on a regular basis.