Potassium as a Supplement
Potassium depletion can be a serious health concern as potassium is a very important mineral that controls many important functions in our body. Potassium helps in the treatment of high blood pressure and controls the water balance in the body, preventing water retention. It also controls neuromuscular functions and reduces the level of acidity in muscles.
Potassium is essential for the transmission of electrical impulses to the heart, and is responsible for carbohydrate metabolism. Potassium is also responsible for the synthesis of protein from amino acids.
Because of its importance, potassium depletion in the body can cause many heart problems and affect the normal growth of our body. Potassium depletion can be tested easily by measuring the red-cell potassium levels in the blood.
Causes of Potassium Depletion
Potassium depletion can be caused due to a number of factors including:
• Malnutrition through prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, or sweating.
• The use of “potassium-depleting” diuretics such as Corticosteroids, Insulin, Antacids, Laxatives and Thiazide.
• Some minerals like sodium and magnesium also regulates the proper balance of potassium in the body. Deficiency of sodium and magnesium can also cause potassium deficiency.
• Age.
Potassium deficiency in the blood is known as hypokalemia. Read more
Essential Nutrients Missing From Your Diet
There are several essential nutrients missing from the diets most people eat. Replacing them with vitamin supplements doesn’t make up for the synergistic effects of nutrients found in food.
Fiber
Fiber is the indigestible part of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Whole grains and cereal fiber can lower your heart disease risk by 30%. To increase the fiber in your diet to the recommended 14g for every 1,000 calories eaten, have a 1/2 cup serving of Fiber One cereal and add more beans to your diet with lentil soup. Use whole grain bread and add some fruit and vegetables to your meals.
Magnesium and Potassium
Magnesium and potassium are linked to blood pressure control, protection from osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes and stroke. To add magnesium, have a half-cup of bran and cooked spinach daily. For potassium, eat sweet potatoes, white potatoes, white beans and bananas.
Calcium
Calcium provides the raw material for building your teeth and bones. It prevents bone-thinning osteoporosis, contributes to healthy blood pressure, and can reduce the risk of colon cancer. To have the right amount in your diet, drink three glasses of low-fat or fat-free milk every day, or have eight ounces of fat-free yoghurt and 2-3 ounces of low-fat cheese each day. Read more
