The Benefits of Potassium

What is Potassium?

Potassium is a chemical element which falls in the alkali metals category. By nature, potassium only occurs is ionic salts. It is the third most abundant mineral in the human body and is a powerful element in improving health. Potassium acts as an electrolyte, therefore this mineral is required for keeping the heart, brain, kidney, muscle tissue, and other important organ systems of the human body in healthy shape. Potassium chloride is the main variety of this mineral, and it works in association with sodium to perform a number of critical tasks within the body.

Are you lacking Potassium?

Often times people are potassium deficient and don't even realize it. There are several symptoms of potassium deficiency. Symptoms may include, muscle weakness and fatigue. Other symptoms include headaches, anemia, abnormal heartbeats, and inactive reflexes. More serious deficiency can lead to diabetes, intestine pain, and swelling in the glands.

Where to find it

This is easier than it seems. The biggest sources for potassium are grains, fruits such as bananas, vegetables, salmon, bananas, avocado, and chicken. It can also be found in drinks such as whole milk, coconut water, and in fresh fruit juices. Smaller amounts of potassium can be found in  almonds, lime beans, and potatoes.

What are the benefits?

A most common benefit of potassium is regulating and leveling blood pressure. This in return helps reduce stress and anxiety. This levels blood pressure also helps reduce cramps. Potassium also helps bring oxygen to the brain allowing your brain to function easier.  Potassium also helps strengthen your bones because it helps preserve calcium. It is also known to boost metabolism and increase heart health.

Can Potassium be harmful?

Yes it can. Just like anything else, potassium intake has to be controlled. Too much potassium can lead to hyperkalemia, which can cause muscle  problems and irregular blood flow. Irregular blood flow can cause your heart to skip beats or slow down the heart beat. THis in return can be fatal.

To sum it up…

Potassium is very beneficial for our blood, brain, heart, and muscles. It can easily be accessed in many foods and recipes. As with any other food or supplement, it’s intake levels have to be controlled.

Felicia Jackson is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and a store manager at Daily Juice Cafe's West University location. She is on a mission to improve her own life and help her family do the same. Ultimately, Felicia aims to use her personal experiences to educate others about health & wellness and help them find a balanced lifestyle.