Potassium Supplement
Potassium is an essential mineral required for the healthy functioning of our kidneys. It also plays an important role in muscle and cardiac contraction.
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In other words it helps in the normal functioning of our heart and digestive system. The natural sources of potassium are vegetables, legumes and fruits. Potassium deficiency in the body can cause a disease known as hypokalemia. Balance of potassium in the body depends on consumption of sodium and magnesium in food. |
High sodium consumption can lead to depletion of potassium stored in the body. Therefore, to maintain an adequate amount of potassium in the body one must take care of the sodium intake also. Potassium deficiency can be attributed to excess sweating, diarrhoea, malnutrition and excess use of diuretics. Even excessive intake of alcohol and beverages like tea and coffee can also lead to a high excretion of potassium.
Potassium supplements are most importantly used in treatment of hypokalemia. The disease can be fatal as it causes muscle cramps, irregular heartbeats and stomach disturbances. Sources rich in potassium are: - meat, potatoes, bananas, citrus fruits, milk products, fish and whole grams. The daily potassium intake can be fulfilled by taking products such as milk, cereals, fruits and vegetables which are often ignored by us.
But, apart from these natural potassium-rich items, one can also go for artificial potassium supplements available in the market. Potassium acetate, potassium citrate, potassium chloride, potassium gluconate and potassium bicarbonate are few of such supplements easily available in the market. Multivitamin capsules are a source of potassium.
For people above 30yrs and undergoing a medical treatment, potassium supplements are a compulsion. During treatment the levels of potassium in the body are affected tremendously. So to make sure that a sufficient amount of potassium is present in the body, the intake of these potassium supplements becomes essential.