Get to know the powers of potassium

Get to know the powers of potassium

 

If it’s good enough for astronauts…

Did you know that during the early days of space exploration, NASA astronauts wanted nutrient-rich, compact and easy-to-eat foods for their space voyages? Bananas made the cut not just for their potassium content, but also because they are so easy to eat and provide a quick energy boost.

All that potassium power has certainly earned its good reputation!

Potassium is an essential mineral and electrolyte that plays a vital role in various bodily functions. What’s so great about it? Well, we’re here to tell you, but first – do you need it?

 

Here are some signs that you’re lacking in potassium:

On the upside, relatively healthy people aren’t typically potassium-deficient. But it can sneak up on you if you’re not eating enough potassium-rich foods, losing too much potassium through urine and sweat, or having gastrointestinal troubles.

When your body is running low on potassium, it might start sending out some pretty noticeable SOS signals:

  • Feeling unusually tired or weak? Your muscles might be struggling without enough potassium.
  • Those sudden, painful muscle cramps, especially at night, could be your body's way of begging for more potassium.
  • Constipation and other digestive problems can crop up when your potassium levels drop.
  • Notice your heart racing or skipping beats? Low potassium can mess with your heart's rhythm.
  • That strange tingling or numb feeling in your limbs can signal that your nerves are crying out for more potassium.
  • Potassium helps balance out sodium levels, so without enough, your blood pressure might start climbing.

 

The powers of potassium

  • Electrolyte balance: Potassium helps maintain the balance of fluids in and out of cells.
  • Nerve function: It’s vital for proper nerve transmission and muscle contraction.
  • Blood pressure regulation: The right amount of potassium intake helps lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium.
  • Heart health: It supports cardiovascular health by helping to regulate your heartbeat.

 

Where can I get potassium from?

That’s easy enough! Potassium is found in a ton of foods, including bananas, oranges, apricots, and avocados. In veggies, opt for spinach, sweet potatoes and tomatoes. Legume helpers include lentils, peas and beans and then there’s plenty of potassium in almonds and sunflower seeds. You can even get a dose from milk, yoghurt, salmon and cod (fish).

 

Good to know

Potassium deficiency can sneak up on you. Not eating enough potassium-packed foods like bananas and sweet potatoes is a common culprit. But that's not all—excessive losses from prolonged diarrhoea, vomiting, or even the use of diuretics can drain your potassium reserves. Underlying medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, or eating disorders, can also play a significant role in depleting this vital nutrient. If you have kidney issues or are taking certain medications, be sure to monitor your potassium intake carefully.


Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.