Also Known as:   a mineral

Potassium Facts
Potassium is the third most abundant mineral in the body and is considered an electrolyte. The human body has about a 4 1/2 ounce supply and most of it is located inside muscle cells. Phosphorus serves as the ionic counterpart to other electrolytes sodium and chloride, and needs a balance of these minerals for many essential body functions. Studies have shown that potassium may help to prevent high blood pressure and may enhance the effect of antihypertensive medications. Both physical and mental stress can lead to a deficiency in potassium. Alcohol, coffee, and sugar deplete potassium levels in the body.

How Potassium Works
Potassium assists in muscle contractions and in maintaining appropriate levels of fluid and the electrolyte balance in the body cells. It is critical to maintaining a normal heartbeat or heart rhythm. Potassium also functions in the conduction of nerve impulses and enables the body to convert glucose into energy, which is then stored in reserve by the muscles and liver.

Possible Benefits

• Sends oxygen to the brain to facilitate mental clarity
• Bolsters immune system in people undergoing chemotherapy
Helps lower blood pressure
• Decreases risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke
• Helps dispose of body wastes
• Aids in allergy treatment
• Reduces pain of arthritis
• Conducts nerve impulses and initiates muscle contractions
• Regulates heartbeat

Usage Guidelines
The RDA for potassium is 3500 mg, and recommended dosages range from 1875-5625 mg per day. Toxicity is rare but people who have kidney disease or who have high blood pressure should consult with their doctor before taking. Symptoms of too much potassium might include, nausea, muscle fatigue, or irregular heartbeat. A deficiency in potassium is not common, but symptoms of a deficiency may include weakness, irregular heartbeat, and failure to replace low levels of potassium could lead to heart failure. Most cases of deficiency can be related to use of some diuretics, or prolonged bouts of vomiting or diarrhea.

Some Natural Sources
Potato, winter squash, tomato, celery, carrots, broccoli, watercress, avocado, banana, oranges, orange juice, raisins, watermelon, cantaloupe, prunes, fish, hamburger, lamb, pork, chicken, bran cereal, wheat flakes cereal, yogurt, milk, salt substitutes and sunflower seeds