Potassium is an electrolyte, so carries electrical charge when dissolved in fluids like blood. It helps the body send nerve signals, muscles to contract, and regulates body fluids. About 98% of the potassium in the body is found in the cells, and 80% is in muscle cells. It is the third most abundant mineral in the body. Sources include beet greens, yams, white potato, portobello mushroom, sweet potato, avocado, spinach, kale, salmon, banana, peas.
Quick Facts
-An electrolyte, so carries electrical charge when dissolved in fluids like blood. Helps the body send nerve signals, muscles to contract, and regulates body fluids
-About 98% of the potassium in the body is found in the cells, and 80% is in muscle cells
-Third most abundant mineral in the body
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RDI
4700 mg [128]
Deficiency
-Symptoms include weakness and fatigue as often the first signs, muscle cramps and spasms, digestion problems like bloating and constipation, heart palpitations, muscle aches and stiffness, tingling and numbness, breathing difficulties, mental disorders and mental fatigue
Toxicity
-No upper limit set because excess can be excreted in urine
-Rare from diet
-Can happen from supplementing too much, or from prolonged exercise, diabetes, and severe burns
-Mild cases rarely show symptoms, but very high amounts can cause abnormal heartbeat [195]
Sources
Beet greens, yams, white potato, portobello mushroom, sweet potato, avocado, spinach, kale, salmon, banana, peas
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