The loss of essential minerals such as potassium can cause health problems. Your body requires potassium for a variety of critical functions, and a potassium deficiency can result in hypokalemia, a condition categorized by having low potassium. You can improve your body's absorption of potassium by eating the right foods, taking potassium supplements that are easily absorbed and avoiding supplements that interfere with the absorption of potassium. You should speak with your doctor prior to taking any potassium supplement or if you suspect that you may have a potassium deficiency.
Inulin
Inulin is a soluble fiber found in tubers, a type of plant structure that stores nutrients. When you consume inulin, the fiber goes to your intestines undigested. Your body can then absorb beneficial bacteria, including bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Inulin also produces byproducts that prevent the growth of bad bacteria and pathogens in your body. This cleansing process helps to remove cholesterol and triglycerides and regulate your blood sugar levels. Additionally, inulin increases the absorption capabilities of the epithelial cells on your colon. This action greatly increases the absorption of minerals, including potassium.
What to Avoid
One of the best ways to help your body absorb more potassium is to recognize health conditions that deplete potassium levels in your body and avoid supplements that interfere with the absorption of this essential mineral. Having diarrhea or vomiting for a prolonged period of time can decrease potassium levels. Additionally, certain types of operations can prevent your body from absorbing potassium. Smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol and consuming too much caffeine can also affect how your body absorbs potassium.
Type of Potassium
If you have a potassium deficiency, the type of supplement you take can dramatically affect how your body absorbs the mineral. According to the book "Vitamins and Minerals Demystified" by Steven Blake, potassium citrate is a type of potassium salt easily absorbed by your body. Potassium bicarbonate is another easily absorbed potassium supplement. Doctors typically use potassium bicarbonate to treat metabolic acidosis in cases such as renal tubular acidosis. Potassium chloride, another easily absorbed potassium supplement, is commonly used to treat metabolic alkalosis. If you have a potassium deficiency, talk to your doctor to see which supplement best suits your particular type of deficiency.
Potassium Recommendation
According to "Vitamins and Minerals Demystified," by supplying your body with at least 4.7 g. of potassium a day, you can help to reduce the risk of stroke, hypertension, osteoporosis and kidney stones. You can obtain this amount of potassium through a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and nuts. Eating bananas, baked potato, plums, raisins and spinach can also help your body absorb more potassium.
References
- "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Potassium but Were Too Tired to Ask"; Betty Kamen; 1992
- "Vitamins and Minerals Demystified"; Steve Blake; 2007
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