Potassium is a key mineral necessary for maintaining health and the proper functioning of numerous biological processes in the human body.
It plays an important role in maintaining the normal functioning of the nervous system, muscle contraction, and the health of the cardiovascular system.
The balance of potassium is closely related to other minerals, such as sodium, and is an important component that supports electrolyte balance and blood pressure.
Potassium is essential for the normal functioning of all cells, tissues, and organs.
Electrolyte and acid-base balance. Potassium is involved in maintaining electrolyte and acid-base balance, which is crucial for conducting nerve impulses, muscle contractions, including the heart muscle, as well as regulating pressure inside and between cells.
It helps control fluid levels in the body, which is critical for maintaining cell health.
Carbohydrate metabolism. It is necessary for converting glucose into energy, making it important for metabolism.
Reducing the risk of stroke. Studies show that high potassium intake is associated with a reduced risk of stroke and cardiovascular diseases.
Bone health. It helps retain calcium in the bones, which may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Skin health. It helps maintain moisture levels and may promote the healing of skin injuries.
Mood. Its deficiency may be associated with increased fatigue and even depression, as it affects energy levels.
Normal acidity levels. It is involved in regulating pH in the body, which is critical for many biochemical processes.
Cell component. Most of the potassium in the body is found inside cells, where it is necessary for their normal functioning.
Daily norm and consumption recommendations
Adults are recommended to consume about 2600-3400 mg of potassium per day for women and 3400-4700 mg for men.
To ensure adequate potassium levels in the diet, it is advisable to include foods rich in this element, such as bananas, oranges, potatoes, spinach, beans, and yogurt.
However, when following a keto diet, preference should be given to less sweet and starchy sources of potassium, such as avocados, leafy greens, mushrooms, and fish.
Symptoms and consequences of deficiency
Potassium deficiency, or hypokalemia, can have a significant impact on a person’s health. Symptoms of this mineral deficiency in the body can manifest in various ways but often include fatigue, weakness, muscle cramps, and constipation.
Lack of potassium can also lead to more serious conditions, such as heart rhythm disturbances.
It is especially important to pay attention to symptoms if you are at risk of developing hypokalemia, for example, with frequent use of diuretics, having chronic kidney diseases, or insufficient potassium intake from food.
Some signs of potassium deficiency may include:
- Weakness, fatigue, and mild irritability
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Digestive problems
- Low blood pressure
If such symptoms occur, it is advisable to consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including dietary correction or potassium supplementation.
Potential risks and signs of excess
Excess potassium in the body, known as hyperkalemia, can be a potentially dangerous condition. This is especially relevant for individuals with kidney diseases, as the kidneys play a key role in maintaining potassium levels within normal limits.
Causes of elevated potassium levels may include chronic kidney diseases, dehydration, excessive intake of potassium-containing supplements, or certain medications.
Symptoms of hyperkalemia may include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Numbness and tingling
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat
Interesting facts about potassium
Discovered in 1807. English chemist Sir Humphry Davy isolated potassium from its compounds using electrolysis.
The name comes from an Arabic word. It originates from the word “al-qali,” which means “alkali” and refers to the plant from which it was originally extracted.
An important mineral for athletes. It helps prevent dehydration and maintains energy levels during physical activity.
Effects of medications. Diuretics and hypertension medications can cause potassium loss, so it’s important to monitor its levels.
