Potassium is a mineral that's necessary for proper function of the body. The recommended dietary allowance for adults over the age of 18 is 4,700 mg daily. Potassium is found in a variety of foods, but mainly in fruits and vegetables, including cantaloupe, bananas, potatoes, squash, asparagus, apricots and dried fruits. To ensure you are getting the full amount of potassium available in these sources, eat produce raw or cook it quickly to avoid degradation of nutrients from heat.
Cardiovascular Health
Potassium is a key component of heart health. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies have shown that people who are deficient in potassium can experience a decrease in blood pressure with potassium supplements. Additionally, people who consume diets high in potassium have a decreased risk of stroke. Potassium also has a major role in muscle contraction; it is found inside cells and works together with sodium to create an electrochemical gradient that keeps your heart pumping.
Metabolism
Potassium is a cofactor for many enzymes; this means potassium is required for them to function properly. These enzymes include pyruvate kinase, which helps break down carbohydrates. Potassium also plays a role in making protein from amino acids in the body. Carbs and proteins are two important sources of energy in the human body. If potassium is deficient in the diet, these important functions cannot take place, and you can't utilize these energy sources efficiently.
Bone Health
According to the Linus Pauling Institute, studies have shown that dietary potassium is associated with a decreased risk for osteoporosis because fruits and vegetables -- which are rich in potassium -- also contain high levels of bicarbonate. If the environment in the body becomes too acidic, bicarbonate can work to neutralize it. This is important for bone health because too much acid can cause calcium to be pulled from the bones, weakening them.
Hypokalemia
Hypokalemia, or low potassium in the blood, can cause many serious problems, including muscle cramping, weakness, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems and an irregular heartbeat. Hypokalemia is usually caused by an underlying medical condition. While it is necessary to treat the underlying problem, the hypokalemia must also be corrected with potassium supplementation to prevent chronic side effects. If you are experiencing hypokalemia, see your doctor immediately, as this condition can be life threatening.
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