Mineral - Potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral that is also known as an electrolyte and serves a vital function in regulating and balancing certain processes in the body.

Potassium along with sodium regulates water balance and the acid base balance in the blood and tissues.  In nerve cells the sodium potassium flux generates the electrical potential that aids the conduction of nerve impulses and is very important in cellular reactions and energy metabolism; it participates in the synthesis of protein from amino acids in the cell.  Potassium also functions in carbohydrate metabolism; it is active in glycogen and glucose metabolism and is important for normal growth and for building muscle.

Potassium helps in the transport of oxygen, aids the body with waste disposal, assists in reducing blood pressure and is an effective aid in allergy treatment.

Toxicity or overdose is referred to as hyperkalemia and occurs when potassium intake exceeds the capacity of the body to eliminate it.  Symptoms of hyperkalemia may include tingling of the hands and feet, muscular weakness, temporary paralysis and abnormal heart rhythm.

Adverse effects of potassium supplements include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort and Diarrhea.

Symptoms of deficiency include fatigue, slow reflexes, muscle weakness and dry skin. Rapid depletion of potassium can cause heart problems.  Deficiency can be caused by vomiting, diarrhea or the use of diuretics.

Best food sources of potassium include fruits and vegetables i.e. bananas, potato, prune juice, prunes, oranges and juice, tomatoes, raisins, artichokes, lima beans, acorn squash, spinach, sunflower seeds, almonds, molasses, peas, lima beans, tomatoes, potatoes etc.

Suggested dosages for is between 500mg to 4700mg a day depending on the individual.  Where as a larger or more active person would need to consume more.

Minerals are inorganic substances that the body needs in very small quantities. There are twenty two metallic elements in the body which make up about 4 percent of total body weight.

Minerals are found abundantly in the soil and water of the planet and eventually are taken in by the root systems of plants. Human beings obtain minerals by eating the plants or by eating the animals that eat the plants. If you eat a variety of meats and vegetables in your diet, you can usually depend on getting a sufficiency of minerals.

The minerals in the body play a part in variety of metabolic processes and contribute to the synthesis of such elements as glycogen, protein, and fats.

For the best sources of minerals please consult the USDA website.

DISCLAIMER: This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for
educational and informational purposes only.  The content is not intended to be a
substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  Always seek
the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions
you may have regarding a medical condition.  Never disregard professional medical
advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.

Since natural and/or dietary supplements are not FDA approved they must be
accompanied by a two-part disclaimer on the product label: that the statement
has not been evaluated by FDA and that the product is not intended to "diagnose,
treat, cure or prevent any disease."
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