Potassium And Health Damage

Like many nutrients, potassium provides both health benefits and risks, depending on your intake. The negative effects might be temporary, or they can result in damage to your body. Part of the reason lies in the unique nature of potassium. It is found both within and outside of the cells. One of its many roles is the transmission of nerve impulses for both voluntary and involuntary movement, such as heart function. Before considering a potassium supplement, consult your doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of taking potassium.

Potassium Regulation

Your body has mechanisms in place to regulate the amount of potassium in your blood. Hormones such as aldosterone, produced by the adrenal glands, and the kidneys ensure that your body contains normal levels of potassium. Because of its abundance in the diet, the body has developed an efficient means of handling excess amounts. When something goes wrong with this regulatory system, the risk for harmful health effects exists. Both excess and inadequate amounts of potassium are potentially dangerous.

Potassium Deficiency

A potassium deficiency, or hypokalemia, can occur in anorexic individuals or those taking certain diuretics. Symptoms include fatigue and intestinal paralysis, which can cause bloating and abdominal pain. Left unchecked, more serious consequences can occur, such as muscle paralysis or abnormal heart rhythms. Potassium deficiencies are a real health concern for both adults and children. A potassium deficiency can also impair the function of the pancreas to produce insulin. The "Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010" encourage to increase their dietary intake of this essential mineral.

Excess Potassium

Excess potassium can also cause health problems. Several conditions can cause your body to accumulate excess potassium, such as kidney failure or trauma. Symptoms of excess potassium, or hyperkalemia, are similar to hypokalemia. You might experience tingling in your hands or feet. It can also cause muscle weakness and abnormal heart rhythms. Ulcer formation can occur in the intestines from taking enteric-coated potassium chloride. Enteric-coated medications resist dissolving until they reach the intestines to avoid some of the gastrointestinal symptoms from certain drugs.

Disease Prevention

Getting adequate amounts of potassium in your diet might help prevent some chronic health conditions, such as high blood pressure. A 2001 study by the University of South Carolina and Palmetto Health Alliance found an association between lower blood pressure and potassium intake. Over time, high blood pressure can damage blood vessels. You can help maintain the health of your cardiovascular system by consuming adequate amounts of potassium-rich foods.