Categories: Health

Are you eating enough potassium? Look for these symptoms

Are you eating enough potassium?

Minerals, fats, vitamins, carbohydrates and proteins are important for proper functioning of the body. Potassium is a major electrolyte and mineral, which is very essential for good health. It helps to maintain normal blood pressure and levels of electrolyte. It is important in proper functioning of heart and kidney. It is involved in normal nerve and muscle functioning. It plays a major role in heartbeat regulation and proper digestion as well.

Potassium deficiency-

 Potassium is majorly found in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, chicken and fish. Banana, tomato, potato skin, apricots, etc. are rich in potassium. Through urine, body throws out the extra potassium and maintains the balance of the minerals. If the potassium level falls below the normal level, it can be harmful. Acid levels get increased due to potassium deficiency, which leads to other health problems. Slight drop in potassium level may not cause any symptoms. But your heartbeats slow down, if there is a large decrease in potassium level.

Look at these symptoms of potassium deficiency-

  1. Dry skin–  Minerals maintain the fluid levels in cells. Skin becomes dry because of the low level of potassium.
  2. High blood pressureBlood pressure gets increased due to potassium deficiency. With low levels of potassium, body becomes more sensitive to sodium in the diet. This causes an increase in blood pressure.
  3. Irregular heartbeats– The major effect of potassium deficiency is irregular heartbeats. A person may experience a chest pain, sudden change in heartbeat and dizziness. It is a very dangerous effect of low potassium level and can cause the heart to stop functioning.
  4. Fatigue– Potassium is an electrolyte, which helps the electrical impulse functions in the body. Due to potassium deficiency, these impulses slow down, which leads to depression, confusion, anxiety. People also feel weak and tired.
  5. Muscle weakness– For proper functioning of muscles, potassium is very essential. Potassium in the body helps to store the carbohydrates. Muscles use these carbohydrates as a fuel for daily activity. Because of the low level of potassium, muscles become weak and cannot function normally; sometimes it becomes difficult for a person to hold the objects. Sudden cramps in the muscle or twitches are the common symptoms.
  6. Paralysis– Potassium helps muscle movement. Low potassium can cause the paralysis. The digestive system cannot work properly because of the paralysis, which leads to problems like constipation and stomach cramps.
  7. Thirst and urination–  Low level of potassium causes loss of water from the body, as the kidney is unable to function properly. Extreme thirst and frequent urination are the common symptoms of potassium deficiency.
  8. Numbness–  Low potassium causes numbness and burning sensation in feet and hands.

 Improper sleep, kidney diseases, excessive sweating, discharge of potassium from body in large amount, vomiting, diarrhea, these are the causes of deficiency. Antibiotics and other medicines also cause the potassium deficiency. By knowing the exact cause, health professional can treat the patient and also make sure that the patient should get diet, which is rich in potassium such as unprocessed food, fresh vegetables and fruits. Potassium supplements also help to maintain potassium levels.

Understanding the symptoms of low potassium levels is an important step to deal with potassium deficiency. Consult your doctor to find more about potassium deficiency.

Nancy

Nancy is a dedicated blogger passionate about food, recipes, and health care. With a deep love for crafting delicious, nutritious dishes, she shares her expertise through her blog, offering practical advice and creative ideas. Nancy's content is a trusted resource for those seeking to improve their well-being and culinary skills, blending health care insights with mouthwatering recipes to inspire her readers.

Recent Posts

Pregnancy Travel Tips For Expecting Moms

Pregnancy brings a lot of physical and mental changes in women. Traveling during the gestational…

5 hours ago

Is it safe to use apple cider vinegar on your face?

Apple cider vinegar is one of the most popular ingredients for DIY face washers, toners,…

1 day ago

Stay Fit and Active with Family and Kids

Who said staying fit has to be boring? Sure, we all know the benefits of…

2 days ago

Tips to find a perfect nanny for your kid

A nanny is a caregiver or a caretaker of the kids when the parents are…

4 days ago

Top 5 must have kitchen gadgets!

These days, kitchens have become advanced places for cooking. Earlier, women used to pour their…

5 days ago

Five DIY projects for your week-ends

Do it yourself is an interesting way of doing things your way without anyone to…

6 days ago