What is Potassium?
Potassium is a mineral that is commonly found in many types of foods. Most healthy people obtain plenty of potassium from their diets. Potassium plays a vital role in balancing the pH levels of the body. It works in conjunction with sodium to maintain the body’s water balance. It also is essential for the growth and development of muscles. Potassium helps to maintain the proper functioning of the nervous system as well as brain functioning. This essential mineral also helps to keep blood pressure in check.
The small intestine absorbs potassium at a 90% absorption rate. As one of the most soluble minerals, potassium is easily lost in the processing and cooking of foods. Most of the excessive potassium in the body is expelled in urine and sweat. The kidneys are responsible for regulating the body’s potassium levels which means that the kidneys must be working properly in order for the body to maintain normal levels of potassium. Drinking too much alcohol, coffee, caffeinated sodas and the use of diuretic drugs cause the body to lose potassium. This mineral is also depleted when someone has the flu and is vomiting and has diarrhea.
Potassium can be found in a wide variety of foods including but not limited to bananas, avocados, apples, raisins, whole grains, nuts and meats. It is also abundant in many types of fish such as sardines, salmon, cod, tuna and flounder. Many herbs are also rich in potassium such as sage, red clover and skullcap.
Being deficient in potassium can lead to fatigue, muscle cramps, irregular heart rhythm, nervous system impairment and even death. Having low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalemia) is often brought about by having bouts of diarrhea or vomiting or by the use of diuretics. Having too much potassium in the body is often the result of a decrease in renal functioning. However, if the kidneys are working properly, they will eliminate any excessive levels of potassium present in the bloodstream.
Potassium’s chemical symbol is K and it’s atomic number is 19. Potassium is the 8th most abundant element on the planet and makes up about 2.1% of the earth’s crust. However, potassium is a very reactive element which is never found free in nature. Potassium was first isolated by Sir Humphry Davy in the early 1800s. It is a very soft metal that can easily be cut with a knife. While potassium can be found in many common, everyday items such as soap, glass and fertilizer, it is best known as an essential nutrient.