Potassium: The Regulator and Energiser

Potassium is known as a regulator in the body. It is involved in the proper functioning of the nervous system, muscles and heart beat.

Although often referred to as an electrolyte, it is in fact a vital mineral. Potassium levels can become imbalanced as a result of such things as excess sweating and urination. A low level will evidence itself as low energy levels.

Potassium Rich Foods

The best food source for Potassium is a Banana. After that, animal flesh sources will provide good quantities due to that animal’s need to have sufficient stores in it’s own body.

However, a lot of potassium is lost from meat because being extra cellular it is contained in the blood.

Other good sources of Potassium are:

• Swiss chards
• Potatoes
• Spinach
• Beans
• Salmon

You should choose Potassium rich foods and include them in as many of your meals as possible. Almost all fruits and vegetables contain this vital mineral.

Potassium is a water-soluble mineral so the body needs it in relatively large amounts.

If you are currently on medications, consult with your health care provider before adding high amounts of foods rich in Potassium to your diet. In some cases high levels can interact with medications.

Regulations in the United States limit the amount of Potassium to 99 mg per dose. This dosage taken directly before exercising will allow you to keep a healthy level despite exercise induced perspiration.

People with severe health conditions such as kidney disease need to be careful about consuming too much Potassium.

For people without any pre-existing conditions there should be no problems that will arise from supplementation.

Signs of Deficiency

People who are deficient in this mineral will begin to have problems with muscle functioning. They will also begin to feel weak and lethargic.

Profuse sweating during exercise can lead to cramps.

Because Potassium is associated with the regulation of the pumping of the heart, low levels could result in irregular heart beat. In fact any system in the body that requires regular activity may be adversely affected by low levels.

Central nervous system problems may also result from lowered levels. Irritability and anxiousness may be exhibited.

Low Potassium levels are associated with:

• Risk of heart disease
• Risk of high blood pressure
• Stroke
• Arthritis
• Cancer
• Digestive disorders
• Infertility

Potassium is a mineral that cannot be chelated or bonded with molecules for better digestion. Because of it’s unique atomic structure it can be converted into a complex in the form of Potassium Glycine.

This form is easier on the gut than conventional Potassium Chloride. People who take Potassium Chloride often complain about stomach upset.

Potassium may be taken in a liquid form to enhance it’s absorption in the body. Many people find this form to be too salty. Adults need to take in about 4,700 mg per day. Check with your medical practitioner for the correct dose for you.

Summary

• Potassium is needed for strong muscle contractions
• Potassium promotes efficient heart, kidney cardiovascular functioning
• Potassium regulates optimum digestive processing
• Potassium is a key electrolyte