Potassium

What is Potassium?

It is a soft, silver white metal that is found in nature in compounds. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the body.

It is found in cells (unlike sodium which is found in the fluid outside of cells) and is located predominantly in muscles, although some is found in the skin and the other tissues.

Why is it needed?

It is needed for many functions, to regulate water balance; levels of acidity; blood pressure and in muscle contraction, nerve conduction, regulation of heartbeat, carbohydrate and protein metabolism.

It is also involved in energy production, muscle contraction and nerve-cell metabolism.

Where is it found?

Most fruits are excellent sources of potassium. Beans, milk and vegetables are also good sources.

What happens if you are deficient?  

Deficiencies occur in those who have severe or prolonged vomiting or diarrhoea. There are also drugs that deplete stores of potassium.

What conditions has it been used to treat?

Primary: 
High blood pressure. Several studies show that an increase in dietary potassium or an increase due to supplementation can lower high blood pressure in some individuals.
It is thought its interaction with sodium and potassium increases the secretion of sodium in the urine which in turn lease to a decrease in blood volume which leads to a drop in blood pressure.
 
Secondary: 
Congestive heart failure

How much is normally taken?

By far the best way to get more potassium is to eat several pieces of fruit a day. The amount allowed to be sold as supplements is very low indeed and you would be better off eating a banana which can contain up to 500 mg. (Supplements contain no more than 99 mg per tablet).

Are there any contraindications or side effects?  

High doses can cause stomach irritation.