There are many ways to improve your digestion and using nutritional supplements is one of them. Potassium is a mineral that is involved in various cellular functions of the human body, such as the kidneys. In the body, potassium is classified as an electrolyte. Electrolytes are substances in the body that regulate the electric charge in the body as well as the flow of water molecules in the body. Potassium rich diets are recommended for optimum heart health and diet rich in potassium usually comes naturally from the foods we eat everyday. The best sources of potassium are from fresh unprocessed foods.
Potassium helps people to maintain fluid balance, reduces blood pressure, regulates your heart function and eliminates waste. Potassium supplements are usually introduced in a person's diet when they are suffering from hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a potassium deficiency with symptoms such as weakness, lack of energy, muscle-cramps, stomach aches, an irregular heartbeat and an abnormal EKG. A deficiency of potassium usually occurs in people with chronic diseases or as part of the aging process.
The best way to supplement your potassium is through food, protein drinks or vitamins. Low amounts of potassium may have serious consequences on the human body. The best sources of potassium are from fresh unprocessed foods, including meats, fish, fruits, vegetables and dairy products.
What to Look for
The best sources of potassium come from the fruits and vegetables that we eat and we typically get the adequate amount of potassium in our normal balanced diets. Some fruits that are rich in potassium include bananas, oranges, pears, prunes, cantaloupes, tomatoes, dried peas and beans, nuts, avocados and potatoes.
Vegetables rich in potassium include broccoli, peas, lima beans, sweet potatoes and winter squash. Milk and yogurt are also excellent sources of potassium. In individuals with a health issue that requires supplementing the diet with potassium, there are several potassium supplements on the market. Some of the products to look for are potassium acetate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium citrate, potassium chloride and potassium gluconate. Potassium can also be found in multivitamins.
Common Pitfalls
Because it is very rare to have a lack of potassium due to the availability in our everyday foods, there is no recommended daily allowance for potassium. Excess potassium in a diet can cause abdominal problems as well as muscle weakness. If you suffer from conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease, it is important to be cautious about excess potassium in the diet.
Ask your doctor if you need to take potassium supplements as they will affect your body if you are currently taking any medications. Taking potassium supplements should only be done under the care of a healthcare provider. Additionally, if you are suffering from allergies, it is important to read the labels of potassium supplements as they may contain allergens such as wheat, gluten or shellfish byproducts.
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