GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Found in bananas, apricots, lettuce, broccoli,
potatoes, fresh fruits and fruit juices, sunflower
seeds, unsalted peanuts, nuts, squash, wheat germ, brewer’s yeast, desiccated liver, fish,
bone meal, watercress, blackstrap molasses, unsulfured
figs.
ROLE IN ANTI-AGING:
Potassium is important for intracellular chemical reactions, and regulates the transfer of
nutrients to the cells. It also helps to regulate water
balance in the body, balance fluid
with sodium inside the cells, and distribute fluids on both
sides of the cell membrane. As potassium is an
electrolyte, it has important roles in
maintaining heart and muscle contraction, and nerve transmission. The
mineral also assists red blood cells in carrying
oxygen and helps to eliminate water
waste through the kidneys. Potassium
is required for proper carbohydrate metabolism
and to store energy in the muscles and liver.
Research has shown that potassium can reduce high blood pressure, allergies, and colic in
babies and help to prevent heart attacks. One study of
people with high blood pressure, revealed that those who ate
at least one serving of potassium-rich foods each day were 40% less likely to suffer a fatal
stroke. Potassium is important for those using
diuretics.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
General weakness of muscles, mental confusion,
muscle cramping, poor reflexes, nervous system disruption, soft, flabby muscles, constipation, acne in young people, dry skin in
adults, severe deficiency leads to heart attack.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
2,000-4,000mg. Generally potassium supplementation
is unnecessary as adequate amounts of
the mineral are obtained in the diet. Athletes generally
require more (3,000- 6,000mg) because of heavy perspiration.
The maximum potency allowed by the government in supplement form is 99mg. Discuss higher potencies
with a physician.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
See above.
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Side effects are unusual, unless one takes too
much of the mineral. Possible side effects include: black stool, bloody stool, diarrhea, fatigue, and upset stomach. Many drugs can cause
potentially dangerous increases in potassium levels
therefore; those taking any form of medication should seek
medical advice before taking potassium
supplements.
SOLUBILITY:
are water soluble
