Your body needs the right balance of many electrolytes to function properly and this includes sodium and potassium. Electrolytes help to maintain the right balance of fluids in the body, they support muscle contraction and nerve signal transmission and must be present at the right levels for the heart to pump correctly. Many situations can influence the level of electrolytes such as potassium in the body; including consuming too much salt. If you are concerned about an electrolyte imbalance, talk to your doctor who can test your levels and recommend treatment options if necessary.
Salt
Salt or sodium helps your body maintain the right balance of fluids such as water and blood, it regulates your blood pressure and helps the nerves conduct signals. Most Americans eat more salt than they need and the most common complication of too much salt is high blood pressure, says MedlinePlus. A general goal is to consume no more than 1,500 mg per day and if you have heart, kidney or liver disease your doctor may recommend going even lower. To prevent complications you should aim to keep your blood sodium level between 135 to 145 mEq/L and your physician can perform a simple blood test to check your levels.
Potassium
Potassium also helps your body keep the right balance of water; plus it supports nerve signal transmission; muscle contraction and it plays a role in regulating blood pressure. Too little potassium in the body may contribute to high blood pressure and other complications. The recommended daily potassium intake is 4.7 g a day, notes Colorado State University. A general goal is to keep blood potassium levels between 3.7 to 5.2 mEq/L, and potassium levels can also be determined by a blood test.
Salt Intake and Potassium Levels
Maintaining the right level of potassium in the body is dependent on how much sodium and magnesium is in the blood. Too much salt in the diet can lead to a low potassium level or hypokalemia which can cause weakness, lack of energy, muscle cramps, stomach disturbances and an irregular heartbeat, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In contrast a diet low in sodium and high in potassium can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. While more research is needed, it appears that potassium can counterbalance the harmful effects sodium has on blood pressure.
Solution
Maintaining the right balance of sodium and potassium can be achieved through dietary changes, unless there is an underlying medical condition for the imbalance which requires medical treatment. To reduce sodium intake limit consumption of processed foods, use herbs and spices to add flavor instead of salt and ask for no salt added when dining out. To ensure adequate potassium intake, the U.S. Department of Agriculture suggests adding foods such as spinach; collards; grapes; blackberries; carrots; potatoes; oranges and grapefruit into your daily diet.
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