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Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a variety of
important biochemical roles in the human body. Potassium’s most
important roles include the transmission of nerve impulses,
contraction of muscles, production of energy, maintenance of
intracellular tonicity, and regulation of blood pressure. Evidence
suggests that diets high in potassium may help to protect against
hypertension, strokes, cardiovascular disease, and quite possibly
other degenerative diseases.
While modern diets do not offer
the same amounts of potassium as so-called primitive diets, gross
deficiencies are rare. Potassium deficiency usually occurs when
excessive amounts of potassium are lost through the alimentary tract
or through the kidneys. Potassium depletion usually occurs as a
consequence of prolonged use of diuretics, from prolonged diarrhea
and hyperaldosteronism, diabetic ketoacidosis, or in those on
long-term total parenteral nutrition. Individuals that experience
hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, anorexia, weakness, fatigue, or
cardiac dysrhythmias may be suffering from potassium
deficiency.
Potassium
Supplementation
There are several potassium
supplemental forms available, including potassium
chloride, potassium
citrate, potassium
gluconate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium aspartate, and
potassium orotate. However, most people can get sufficient amounts
of additional potassium by eating liberal amounts of fruits and
vegetables on a daily basis.
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