Potassium: The Essential Nutrient You Need For Your Body To Function Properly

Potassium: The Essential Nutrient You Need For Your Body To Function Properly

People often think of sodium as the bad guy in the world of nutrition, but it is actually potassium that deserves that title. It is sodium that can lead to high blood pressure, kidney disease, and other serious health problems. High levels of sodium are found in processed foods like fast food and pre-packaged snacks because they are all packed with salt to make them taste good. However, this causes most people to be deficient in potassium – which isn’t added to these foods because it doesn’t taste good! Adequate intake of potassium is important for maintaining fluid balance and for normal muscle function and nerve responses. In addition, low amounts of potassium have been linked to an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

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What does potassium do for your body?

Most people think of sodium as the bad guy in the world of nutrition; however, it is actually potassium that deserves that title. It is sodium that can lead to high blood pressure and kidney disease, but most people are actually deficient in potassium. Adequate intake of potassium is important for maintaining fluid balance and for normal muscle function and nerve responses. In addition, low amounts of potassium have been linked to an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Potassium plays a large role in our overall health, so it's important to know how to get more of it. Most people aren't getting enough of this essential mineral. It's important to eat a balanced diet rich in potassium-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to stay healthy.


Why is potassium so important?

Potassium is an essential electrolyte and mineral in the human body that helps keep the body hydrated and regulates blood pressure. Potassium is a necessary nutrient for proper functioning of the heart, kidneys, muscles, and the entire nervous system. The recommended daily intake of potassium is 4,700 mg, but the average American diet only contains 2,800 mg. Potassium can be found in many foods, including vegetables like carrots, squash, potatoes, spinach, and legumes like beans and soybeans. Some fruits like bananas and grapefruit also contain high amounts of potassium. It’s easy to get enough potassium in your daily diet, but many people don’t get enough of this vital nutrient.


 Ways to get more potassium

Adequate intake of potassium is important for maintaining fluid balance and for normal muscle function and nerve responses. In addition, low amounts of potassium have been linked to an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Potassium plays a large role in our overall health, so it's important to know how to get more of it. Most people aren't getting enough of this essential mineral. It's important to eat a balanced diet rich in potassium-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to stay healthy.

Here are 5 ways to get more potassium:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in potassium-rich foods.

Potatoes and bananas are easy examples of potassium-rich foods.

• Avoid processed foods.

These types of foods are often high in sodium, which is bad for your health.

• Eat more fruits and vegetables.

Fruits are especially high in potassium. Vegetables, such as potatoes, squash, and beans, are also great sources.

• Drink more orange juice.

This is a great source of potassium and vitamin C.

• Take a potassium supplement.

Taking potassium supplements can be beneficial if you don't get enough in your diet.


How to make sure you’re getting enough potassium

Adequate intake of potassium is important for maintaining fluid balance and for normal muscle function and nerve responses. In addition, low amounts of potassium have been linked to an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Potassium plays a large role in our overall health, so it's important to know how to get more of it. Most people aren't getting enough of this essential mineral. It's important to eat a balanced diet rich in potassium-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to stay healthy. 


Potassium is an essential mineral found in most foods and is very important for maintaining proper fluid balance and normal muscle function. Most people are deficient in potassium, which can lead to an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. It’s easy to get enough potassium in your daily diet, but many people don’t get enough of this vital nutrient. Eating a balanced diet rich in potassium-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, is the best way to stay healthy and ensure your body is receiving the potassium it needs.