Potassium is one of seven macro minerals--inorganic nutrients needed in relatively high daily amounts. Along with chloride, sodium, magnesium and calcium, potassium is an essential electrolyte. They are called electrolytes because they carry an electrical charge when dissolved in body fluids. These three elements are distributed throughout the body's fluids, including blood, lymph, and inter-cellular fluids.
Electrolytes help regulate nerve transmission and many cell membrane functions. Magnesium helps maintain the potassium in the cells; but even more crucial is the proper sodium to potassium balance. Without potassium, cell growth can be retarded. Potassium works with sodium to regulate blood pressure and transmit nerve impulses. Along with magnesium, it is essential to the proper functioning of the heart muscle. In this role, potassium acts as the catalyst stimulating cellular contraction. Low potassium intake encourages sodium retention, which raises blood pressure.
Additionally, Potassium balances the acid/alkaline system, transmits electrical signals between nerves and cells, aids in the regulation of the body's water balance and is essential for efficient muscle contraction. A deficiency may cause severe dehydration. Potassium functions to maintain the normal acid-base (pH) balance in the blood and tissues.
Hypertension is often a result of low potassium levels in comparison to sodium. The body should normally contain more potassium than sodium, but the standard American diet, with its reliance on fast foods, packaged convenience foods, chips, and salt is too high in sodium and chloride and too low in potassium. Research has found that a high sodium diet with low potassium intake tends to elevate blood pressure. This usually leads to a doctor's prescription of diuretics which can cause even more potassium loss, further aggravating the underlying problems. This mineral is absolutely essential in proper amounts for good health.
