Potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral component of the human body and is the main cation found in the intracellular fluid of all cells. Potassium is the third most abundant mineral in the body and besides regulating the level of liquids in the body, it plays an important role in mediating the sending of nerve signals and regulating muscle contractions. Since potassium is an essential electrolyte, usually obtained through our diet, any condition where a patient cannot maintain their dietary intake is an indication for potassium supplementation. But this must be done carefully, because, in the case of potassium, more than needed does not mean better. But it can even represent a health hazard.
 

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The role of potassium in the body
A diet rich in potassium can help you maintain good fluid balance;

Maintaining good fluid balance is important for optimal health. Poor fluid balance can lead to dehydration, which in turn affects the heart and kidneys.


Potassium is important for the nervous system
The nervous system transmits messages between the brain and the body. Potassium plays an essential role in the activation of nerve impulses throughout the nervous system. Nerve impulses help regulate muscle contractions, heartbeats, reflexes, and many other processes.

A low level of potassium in the blood can affect the body's ability to generate a nerve impulse.


Potassium levels have a significant effect on muscle contractions
The nervous system helps regulate muscle contractions. Altered levels of potassium in the blood can affect nerve signals in the nervous system, weakening muscle contractions.

When potassium levels in the blood are too high this can weaken his contractions and cause an abnormal heartbeat. Low levels of potassium in the blood can also alter the heartbeat.


When the heart is not beating properly, it cannot effectively pump blood to the brain, organs and muscles. In some cases, cardiac arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat can be fatal and lead to sudden death.


Health benefits of potassium
Eating a potassium-rich diet is linked to many impressive health benefits.


It can help reduce blood pressure
A diet rich in potassium can lower blood pressure by helping the body eliminate excess sodium.

In a study1 that included 1,285 participants between the ages of 25 and 64, scientists found that people who ate the most potassium had lower blood pressure compared to people who ate the least little bit.

Those who consumed the most had 6 mmHg lower systolic blood pressure and 4 mmHg lower diastolic blood pressure, on average.


It can help protect against strokes
A stroke occurs when there is a lack of blood flow to the brain.

A meta-analysis2 of 11 studies with 247,510 participants found that people who consumed the most potassium had a 21% lower risk of stroke. Of

researchers also found that a diet high in potassium was linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.