Each time your heart beats and your muscles move when your brain directs them, you have potassium to thank. This mineral is responsible for a number of vital functions in the human body -- without it, you would not be able to live. By understanding the role potassium plays and the conditions that may affect your potassium levels, you can ensure you have enough to stay healthy.
Basics
Potassium is both a mineral and an electrolyte, which means it can conduct electrical impulses in your body. Another common electrolyte is sodium. Sodium and potassium work together in your body via a process known as the "sodium-potassium pump." This exchange of sodium and potassium in your cells ushers in ATP, which is an energy source for your body. Your body relies on a balance of potassium to keep your body functioning normally. Too little or excess potassium can cause health conditions that affect your heart and brain.
Enzyme Cofactor
Enzymes are substances in the body that help to speed up or facilitate chemical reactions. Your body requires potassium to help these reactions as well. One example of potassium's contribution is in breaking down carbohydrates in your diet. Your body uses potassium along with an enzyme called pyruvate kinase to break these carbohydrates down for use as an energy source.
Chemical Reactions
The sodium-potassium pump creates the energy that powers several important reactions in the body. For example, sodium and potassium are exchanged to keep your heart beating at a regular, even pace. Potassium also is needed to contract your muscles and to transmit the nerve impulses your brain sends to move your body.
Disease Prevention
Having normal potassium levels in your blood has been linked with preventing several life-threatening conditions. Examples include stroke, osteoporosis and kidney stone prevention. If you do not get enough potassium from food sources in your daily diet, you may be at increased risk for experiencing these conditions. Fruits and vegetables tend to be higher in potassium and make good food sources.
Deficiency/Excess
Because your body requires balanced potassium levels to perform, an excess or deficiency can cause symptoms. Potassium deficiency, known as hypokalemia, can cause your heart to beat irregularly, constipation, fatigue, muscle damage, muscle weakness and muscle paralysis. Excess potassium, called hyperkalemia, can also affect your heart, causing your heartbeat to slow. You also may experience muscle weakness and tingling in your hands and feet. If you experience these or other symptoms that may be linked to potassium, see your physician.
