Not having enough potassium will harm your heart. Potassium is an important mineral the promoted healthy cells and a healthy heart. Some eating disorders like bulimia may increase the risk of a potassium deficiency also known as hypokalemia. Diuretics can also cause hypokalemia.
Some symptoms include but are not limited to kidney disease, fatigue, intestinal issues, bloating, constipation, weakness, stomach cramps. Muscle cramps, and abdominal pain. If it’s a case of severe hypokalemia it may even result in heart palpitations and an irregular heart beat. These abnormal rhythms can cost you your life!
People with easting disorders are at a high risk. Overuse of laxatives and diuretics can deplete you of important minerals including magnesium and potassium. The average adult needs anywhere from 4,700-5,100 mgs of Potassium daily. Other than taking it in supplements the best way to get your vitamins is through your food. Your body breaks it down and absorbs it better than if it were in a pill or capsule.
Potassium has been shown to decrease the risk of stroke and Osteoporosis. Those who consume the potassium from vegetables and fruit have shown to reduce the risk of stroke. Potassium rich foods like fruits and vegetables also have a high source in precursors to bicarbonate ions which are buffer acids in the body. If our body does not get enough potassium from our food then it results in taking calcium salts from the bones which causes osteoporosis. Eating more fruits and vegetables means a healthier body and stronger bones. Taking potassium also lowered the risk of kidney stones. The study showed that it decreases urinary calcium excretion.
Foods rich in Potassium include bananas, Orange juice, tomato juice, raisins and potatoes which have 926 mg. of potassium. Other fruits and vegetables include artichoke, spinach, almonds, molasses, lima beans, acorn squash, sunflower seeds and plums. Mix and match to get a good mix of vitamins and minerals. One thing you may want to try is making chunky soups. Include spinach, squash and beans in the soup to add great flavor and vitamins to your body. You can even juice it to make it even easier. One of my favorite juices is a mix between apples, bananas, and oranges. If you’re really brave throw some spinach in it. It may change the color to a weird green but it’s packed with antioxidants, potassium and vitamins. You can also eat a banana everyday. It can’t get any easier than that! Go get some of those potassium rich foods and stay healthy!
