Potassium's role in the body is to help maintain normal levels of fluid inside our cells and also to help our muscles to contract and supports normal blood pressure.
Potassium is an essential mineral that is needed by all tissues in the body.
It is sometimes referred to as an electrolyte because it carries a small electrical charge that activates various cell and nerve functions.
Potassium is found naturally in many foods and as a supplement.
Potassium is a chemical element with the symbol K and atomic number 19.
Potassium is a silvery-white metal that is soft enough to be cut with a knife with little force.
Potassium metal reacts rapidly with atmospheric oxygen to form flaky white potassium peroxide in only seconds of exposure.
In hypokalemia, the level of potassium in blood is too low.
A low potassium level has many causes but usually results from vomiting, diarrhea, adrenal gland disorders, or use of diuretics.
A low potassium level can make muscles feel weak, cramp, twitch, or even become paralyzed, and abnormal heart rhythms may develop.
If high potassium happens suddenly and you have very high levels, you may feel heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, or vomiting.
This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical care.
If you have these symptoms, call 911 or go to the emergency room.
Despite its importance, very few people around the world get enough potassium.
A healthy adult should aim to consume 3,500–4,700 mg daily from foods.
To increase your intake, incorporate a few potassium-rich foods into your diet such as spinach, yams, avocados, bananas, and fish, such as salmon.
Low potassium (hypokalemia) has many causes.
The most common cause is excessive potassium loss in urine due to prescription medications that increase urination.
Also known as water pills or diuretics, these types of medications are often prescribed for people who have high blood pressure or heart disease.