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Potassium is an essential
mineral that is found in almost every cell. It is needed for growth,
building muscles, transmission of nerve impulses, heart activity, etc. Potassium, together with sodium (potassium inside the cell and sodium
in the fluid surrounding the cell) work together for the nervous
system to transmit messages as well as regulating the contraction of
muscles.
Deficiency of potassium: The kidneys
excrete any excess, but deficiencies are seldom found in people on
normal diets, although some people could look at increasing their
potassium intake. A deficiency may result in fatigue, cramping
legs, muscle weakness, slow reflexes, acne, dry skin, mood changes,
irregular heartbeat. If you are into bodybuilding, it is also a
good idea to increase your potassium intake, since potassium is needed
to maintain good muscular form and muscle control, and potassium is lost in excessive perspiration and urine.
Works to help protect against prostate
enlargement and cancer.
Potassium is one of the electrolytes we
all require to maintain health. This mineral is important for a
healthy nervous system and regular heart rhythm. It helps prevent
stroke, aids in proper muscle contraction and works with sodium to
control the body's water balance.
Potassium is important for chemical reactions within the cells, aids in maintaining stable blood pressure and in transmission of electrochemical impulses.
A 1997 review of earlier studies showed
that low potassium intake may be a significant factor in the
development of high blood pressure. Potassium also regulates
the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes. This
function of potassium has been shown to decrease with age, which may
account for some of the circulatory damage, lethargy, and weakness
experienced by older people.
Together with magnesium, potassium can
help prevent calcium-oxalate kidney stones. Signs of
potassium deficiency include abnormally dry skin, acne, chills,
cognitive impairment, constipation, depression, diarrhea, diminished
reflex function, edema, nervousness, insatiable thirst, fluctuations
in heartbeat, glucose intolerance, growth impairment, high
cholesterol levels, insomnia, low blood pressure, muscular fatigue
and weakness, nausea and vomiting, periodic headaches, proteinuria
(protein in the urine), respiratory distress and salt retention.
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