Potassium

Potassium

Potassium

A mineral element that serves as the principal cation in intracellular fluid and important electrolyte in extracellular fluid.
- Functions of Potassium: Cell membrane homeostasis, nerve impulse conduction, and muscle contraction.
- Usual intake = 50 - 150 mgEq per day
Potassium is water soluble and is excreted by the kidneys.

Symptoms of deficiency:

Muscle weakness, dizziness, thirst, confusion, changes in EKG, and heart arrhythmia (F.A. David. Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary).

Reasons People take Potassium:

1.  Treatment of hypokalemia
2.  Control and prevent hypertension
3.  Reduce mortality of a myocardial infarction
4.  Protect against stroke
5.  Maintain body fluid, acid-base balance
 Sources: The best is from whole unprocessed foods including avocados, bananas, and 
 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Herbal Medicine Handbook.  2004. NHerbal TM by Skyscape.com.

Potassium  requires  the  presence  of  other  nutrients  to function properly: 

B6 phosphorus calcium and Mg.
There is no daily recommended intake set, but daily doses
could be at 4.7g through dietary intake, and therapeutic
doses should be a minimum of 1.5 to 3g per day.
- If you are taking potassium for hypertension / high blood pressure, then you should also follow a DASH diet.
- The best supplement will combine the co-factors & the best source of this nutrient is via food.
 Bauman, Ed. Ph.D. “Micro nutrients.” Foundations of Nutrition Course

Food Sources:

-  Avocado
-  Banana
-  Potatoes
- Enriched whole grains & bran
- Dried peas & Beans
- Vegetables; Avocados
- Fresh or dried fruits
- Fruit  juices;  tomatoes, orange

POTASSIUM IS
NATURES
most
carefully  constructed
diuretic.