At first glance, thiamine and potassium do not have much in common, since thiamine is a B vitamin, while potassium is a mineral. However, your body needs both thiamine and potassium for your nervous system to function correctly. In addition, thiamine is necessary for your metabolism, and potassium helps maintain your muscle and heart functions.
Thiamine Function
According to the National Institutes of Health, thiamine -- also called vitamin B-1 -- primarily helps your body metabolize carbohydrates into energy. Furthermore, thiamine is a necessary component in the biochemical reactions that occur in your heart, muscles and nervous system. A thiamine deficiency can result in weakness, fatigue, muscle pain, edema, an elevated heart rate and difficulty breathing. In severe or prolonged cases, it can result in congestive heart failure, nerve and brain damage.
Thiamine Sources and Amounts
To help your body convert food into energy efficiently and maintain proper nerve, heart and muscle function, your diet needs to contain a sufficient amount of thiamine. The recommended daily intake of thiamine is 1.2 milligrams for men and 1.1 milligrams for women. Thiamine is found primarily in foods also containing protein, like lean meat and poultry. Eggs, legumes, nuts and seeds, enriched foods -- like breakfast cereals -- and whole grains all contain ample thiamine.
Potassium Function
Potassium is one of several electrolytes, or substances that conduct electricity, in your body. This makes it essential in sending nerve impulses, moving muscles and maintaining heart function. Potassium also plays a small role in your metabolism, as it enables an enzyme that is necessary for the metabolic process. A potassium deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, fatigue, bloating and stomach pain. In severe cases, it can cause muscle paralysis and heart arrhythmias that can lead to death.
Potassium Sources and Amounts
According to the Linus Pauling Institute, the Food and Nutrition Board recommends that adults consume at least 4,700 milligrams of potassium every day. Potassium is available in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, so eating your recommended daily servings of these foods will help you get enough potassium. Bananas, plums, oranges, potatoes with the skin and raisins are particularly high in potassium. However, orange, tomato and prune juices are also good sources.
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