Sunday 10 November 2013

Importance of Potassium in Daily Diet

 
One of the important parts of human diet is Potassium. Potassium plays a particular role for metabolism and normal cellular function.  It helps the body in maintaining the electrolyte balance and keeping all over body cells function properly. 3500 milligrams of potassium is the recommended daily dosage for an ordinary adult. There is a requirement of increasing the dose if you’re an athlete to replace the lost electrolytes. Along with the supplements, a variety of foods is a perfect source of providing potassium. The healthy function of all major body parts, including heart, kidneys, brain, liver, muscle tissues and other important organs, is depending on the adequate supply of potassium with magnesium, calcium, sodium and phosphorus.

  • Potassium Deficiency

Potassium keeps save a human brain from the occurrence of a stroke. Heart muscles work properly while getting the required amount of potassium through foods or supplements. Its presence is beneficial for the effective working of musculoskeletal system. Potassium deficiency is the key reason of musculoskeletal disorders which are one of the most common human sufferings. Lack of potassium prevents from the onset of the osteoporosis. The reduced bone mineral density is a result of not having proper amount of potassium in the body. Sufficient intake of potassium prevents from kidney stones. The reduction of potassium in blood disrupts the balance between intracellular and extracellular potassium content. The continual reduction of potassium level in blood is typically known as hypokalemia. Muscle stiffness, pain, depression, mood alterations, fatigue, joint pains are some of the common symptoms of potassium deficiency which can lead to heart or liver dysfunction and in severe cases failure.

  • Potassium Rich Foods

There is a wide variety of foods, vegetables and fruits that are highly rich in potassium. Consuming potassium rich food in adequate amounts makes it possible for you to not take any additional supplements to overcome potassium deficiency. Whole grain foods are one of the best sources of natural potassium. Vegetables, fruits, nuts, meat, dairy products, dried fruits, white meat and certain fish types are also provide a high amount of potassium. It’s recommended to consume raw vegetables and fruits as much as possible to get it more as boiling, frying and cooking reduce the amount of potassium in the foods.

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