Potassium:
Our hearts beat for potassium, a macromineral and electrolyte that’s essential for a steady heartbeat, the transmission of nervous system signals, and muscle function.
Alongside sodium, potassium is also an MVP in balancing fluids by helping the kidney save fluids when we are dehydrated or excrete fluids that are in excess. And wait, there’s more! Potassium is thought to lower blood pressure and benefit bones, too.
Shortterm potassium deficiencies (often from prolonged vomiting or diarrhea) may cause fatigue, muscle weakness and cramps, bloating, abdominal pain, and constipation thanks but no thanks! But don’t get too pumped up on potassium: consuming high doses (typically from supplements) can lead to muscle weakness, tingling in hands and feet, GI symptoms, and abnormal heart rhythms .
What You Need:
- 4,700 mg
How to Get It:
- Kick up your K (potassium’s letter on the periodic table) with baked potatoes (926 mg
per medium potato) - artichokes (343 mg per medium artichoke)
- plums (637 mg per ½ cup)
- raisins (598 mg per ½ cup)
- bananas (422 per medium banana)
What’s Too Much:
- Not determined
