POTASSIUM
Without getting too deep into a physiology lesson, potassium is a major regulator in the body, right from your cells to your nerve impulses to the rhythm of your heart. Potassium plays an important role in a few different systems in your body, including the nervous system, circulatory system and muscular system. It helps keep your heart rhythm regular, aids in transmitting electrochemical impulses, preventing strokes and keeping your blood pressure stable. It helps ensure your muscles contract properly. Potassium works alongside sodium in maintaining the body’s balance of water. In your cells, potassium is important for chemical reactions and regulating the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes.
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SOURCES
Apricots, avocados, bananas, lima beans, blackstrap molasses, brewer's yeast, brown rice, dates, figs, dried fruit, garlic, nuts, potatoes, raisins, spinach, winter squash, wheat bran, yams and yogurt. Herbs that contain potassium include horsetail, nettle, plantain, red clover and sage.
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DEFICIENCIES
A deficiency in potassium can lead to abnormally dry skin, acne, chills, cognitive impairment, constipation, depression, diarrhea, diminished reflex, edema, nervousness, insatiable thirst, fluctuations in heartbeat, glucose intolerance, high cholesterol, insomnia, low blood pressure, muscular fatigue, nausea, vomiting, periodic headaches and salt retention.
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