What happens if there is potassium deficiency in the body and how to prevent it

He potassium offers multiple health benefits and deficiency of this mineral in the body it can cause consequences that few take into account.

Potassium is known to aid nerve function and muscle contraction and keeps the heart rate constant.

“This mineral counteracts the effect of sodium on blood pressure. The combination of a diet high in salt and low in potassium increases blood pressure”, explains the AARP website, the American non-profit and independent organization that responds to the needs of people over the age of 50.

In this sense, they add, it is important to maintain a balanced pH and maintain healthy bones, kidneys, nerves and heart.

Anyway, It is always important to consult a doctor to perform the corresponding analysis and provide the best diagnosis and treatment.

What if I have low potassium levels in my blood?

A low level of potassium in the blood is a condition that doctors call hypokalemia.

According to Medline Plus, the US National Library of Medicine, common causes of low blood potassium levels include:

• Medicines, such as diuretics (pee pills), some antibiotics (amphotericin B, chloroquine at toxic levels)

• Diarrhea or vomiting

• Eating disorders (such as bulimia)

• Hyperaldosteronism

• Excessive use of laxatives, which can cause diarrhea

• Chronic kidney disease

• Low magnesium level

• Sweating

• Genetic disorders, such as hypokalemic periodic paralysis, Bartter syndrome

Symptoms of potassium deficiency in the body

A small decrease in potassium in the blood often causes no symptoms or mild to moderate symptoms, which may include:

• Constipation

• Feeling of an irregular heartbeat or palpitations

• Fatigue

• muscle damage

• Muscle spasms or weakness

• Tingling and numbness

Instead, a significant decline of potassium in the blood can cause abnormal heart rhythms, especially in people with heart disease.

This can cause dizziness or fainting. It can also cause a very low level of potassium in the blood the heart stops.

How to prevent or treat potassium deficiency

According to experts, if the condition is mild, you will probably be prescribed it oral potassium pills.

If the problem is more serious, this may be necessary receive potassium through a vein.

If you need diuretics, your doctor may switch you to a form that preserves potassium in the body. This type of diuretic is called potassium preservative.

And of course it’s always positive consume foods rich in potassium to help treat and prevent low levels of this element.

Below are some examples to keep in mind of the amount of potassium contained in some foods provided by the site. Better with healthFrom ACE:

Potatoes and sweet potatoes. A medium skin-on roast contains 926 mg of potassium and a cup of sweet potatoes 754 mg. Roast them to retain potassium.

Bananas or plantains. Popular among athletes, the medium one contains 422 mg and when combined in a smoothie with a cup of yogurt (579 mg) will increase potassium.

Pumpkin. For every 100 grams you get 190 milligrams of mineral.

Melon. For every 100 grams we get 267 milligrams of potassium.

Raisins. For every 100 grams, 749 milligrams of potassium.

Pistachios. A small, salty and delicious dried fruit that provides 1 gram of potassium per 100 grams.

Mushrooms. For every 100 grams it contains a quantity of 318 mg of mineral.

Chicken. Potassium is also found in white meat. For every 100 grams we acquire 264 milligrams.

Blue fish. With 384 milligrams of potassium per 100 grams, oily fish is a rich source of potassium.

How much potassium should an adult consume

The amount of potassium the recommended daily dose is 4,700 milligrams (mg) for adultsthey claim from AAAP.

This level can be reached if the diet contains it nine servings of fruit and vegetables.

Eating foods rich in potassium and continuing to reduce salt in the diet, as well as processed products that are high in sodium, ends up being a great formula for those suffering from hypertension.

Doctors advise accompany a balanced diet with physical activityor if possible stay active.