Do you often suffer from cramps in your extremities? Your body probably needs potassium.

Potassium is a mineral our bodies need to function properly. It helps muscles and nerves communicate, and it also helps expel waste from cells and allow nutrients to flow to them.

A diet rich in potassium counteracts some of the harmful effects of sodium on blood pressure.

Potassium deficiency occurs when our body experiences significant losses of potassium through the urinary or gastrointestinal tract.

Potassium performs two functions in our body:

As an electrolyte, it conducts electricity and is important for the contraction of skeletal and smooth muscles, heart function, and the digestive tract.

As a mineral, it is important for liver function.

potassium

Symptoms of potassium deficiency in our body:

Muscle weakness.

Cramps in the extremities.
Fatigue.

Cardiac arrhythmia.

Paralysis.

It affects the digestive system, causing constipation and stomach problems.

It affects brain function and people experience confused or lethargic thinking and confusion.

It causes fatigue, tingling and numbness.

Lack of energy.

Vomit.

Diarrhea.

Excessive sweating.

Poor nutrition.

Potassium deficiency occurs when our body suffers significant urinary or gastrointestinal losses.

Foods rich in potassium:

Bananas, carrots, potatoes, oranges and grapefruit, milk, avocado, bran, peanut butter, beans, spinach and kale, salmon, seaweed, wheat germ, tomatoes, grapes, blackberries, fava beans, chicken, meats, salmon and cod.

Fact: Excess potassium in the blood occurs when potassium intake exceeds the kidneys’ ability to eliminate it.