Potassium is a very important mineral for the proper functioning of all cells, tissues, and organs in the human body. It is also a substance that conducts electricity in the body, along with sodium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium. Potassium is crucial to heart function and plays a vital role in skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, making it very essential for normal digestive and muscular function.



According to American Heart Association, A diet that includes natural sources of potassium is important in controlling blood pressure because potassium lessens the effects of sodium. AHA recommends daily intake of potassium for an average adult is about 4,700 milligrams per day.

Body needs potassium to:

Build proteins

Break down and use carbohydrates

Build muscle

Maintain normal body growth

Control the electrical activity of the heart

Control the acid-base balance

Having too much or too little potassium in the body could lead to serious consequences.

Low potassium level is called hypokalemia, and some common symptoms would include:

Weakness

Fatigue

Severe vomiting or diarrhea

Constipation

Muscle cramping

Weak Muscles

Abnormal heart rhythms

Rise in blood pressure

High potassium level in the blood is known as hyperkalemia, some common symptoms include:

Poor kidney function/ Kidney Failure

Slow heart rate

Weakness

Paralysis

Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)

Nausea

Natural Sources of Potassium Rich food would include:

Sweetpotato

Tomatoes

Beans and peas

Potatoes

Cantaloupe

Nectarine

Brussels Sprouts

Avocados

Mushroom, portabella

Pumpkin

Fresh fruits (bananas, oranges, and strawberries)

Dried fruits (raisins, apricots, prunes, and dates)

Spinach

Carrot Juice

Natural Sources for Low Potassium Diet would include:

Apple

Blackberry

Blueberry

Grape

Plum

Watermelon

Broccoli

Asparagus

Cabbage

Cauliflower

Corn

Egg plant

Squash, zucchini

Ladies Finger/ Okra

Here are some very popular Potassium Rich Recipes:

According to American Heart Association, too much potassium can be harmful in many older persons and those with kidney disorders. Potassium affects the balance of fluids in the body. As we get older, our kidneys become less able to remove potassium from our blood. Therefore, before taking any over-the-counter potassium supplement, consult your healthcare professional.

Please check the details at AHA.

You could also refer from Oregon State InfoCenter link for Adequate intake levels of Potassium for a good health.