Potassium

Definition

Potassium is an element essential to human health as an electrolyte as well as numerous other roles. It is prevalent in fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

Health considerations

There is some evidence that increased potassium intake can mitigate the effects of a high-sodium diet or sodium-induced high blood pressure. Low potassium is referred to as hypokalemia and can, depending on severity, cause increased blood pressure, cardiac arrythmia, muscle weakness, and paralysis.

May be found in

Fresh fruit, dried fruit, fresh vegetables, canned vegetables, tomato paste, navy beans, legumes, beans, lentils, salt substitute, bananas, coconut water, vegetable juice

References

Science Daily

Medline Plus