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Potassium Information, News, Facts and Claims
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Potassium is a mineral that is found in most foods. You may have heard, for instance, that bananas contain high levels of potassium. Studies indicate that balanced levels of potassium in the body contribute significantly to muscle and heart health, and that potassium is good for both the nervous and digestive systems 1.
Potassium in the diet
Potassium is an all-important nutrient, as it helps offset the sodium content of salt in our daily diet (p otassium w eakens salt's tendency to raise blood pressure). Potassium also plays a role in neutralizing the acidity introduced to the body through high concentrations of red meat, dairy-based foods and fiber, which if left unchecked by healthy potassium levels, may diminish long-term bone health 2.
Nutritionists suggest that eating foods high in potassium is the best way to introduce potassium into the body. Although the potassium content of foods high in potassium can be significantly reduced through cooking, using a minimal amount of water in preparing foods high in potassium may help better retain potassium as a nutrient. Ensuring that potassium-rich foods are not overcooked is equally important.
Potassium deficiency
While it's rather difficult to become potassium deficient - as potassium is contained in so many foods - it's not impossible. Athletes with a marginal diet and who train consistently in hot, humid weather may exhibit signs of potassium deficiency such as pronounced muscle fatigue 3.
Potassium Q&A at Vitacost.com
Q: Why do I need potassium in my diet?
Potassium works with water to help moderate sodium levels in the body.
Q: What foods are high in potassium?
A finite list of foods high in potassium includes bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, figs, raisins, bran, prunes, milk and cantaloupe. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of whole foods that contain potassium.
Q: Is it possible to become potassium deficient?
Most individuals susceptible to potassium deficiency are athletes who do not eat enough potassium-rich whole food.
Q: Can I get too much potassium?
Excess potassium levels are rarely found in healthy adults. Nutritionists suggest, however, consulting a physician before taking potassium supplements.
Q: What symptoms occur if my potassium level is too low?
A chronically low potassium intake can lead to unstable blood pressure, poor kidney health and a possible increase in bone loss.
Q: Can elevated levels of potassium in the body help fight hypertension?
In that potassium helps to stabilize sodium levels, potassium may ease the symptoms of hypertension.
Q: What is potassium citrate?
Potassium citrate is used to prevent the formation of kidney stones that are caused by high levels of calcium or uric acid in the urine.
Q: Is potassium good for maintaining cardiovascular health?
Balanced levels of potassium and sodium in the body can lead to overall good health.
View our entire listing of Potassium products.
1 CareNotes. Feb 2007 pNA.
2 Harvard Health Letter . March 2007 pNA.
3 Yishane Lee. Runner's World. Nov 2005 pNA. |
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Featured Potassium Products
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