Chronic potassium deficiency

Potassium is an important material with regard to maintaining healthy bodily functions. Potassium, sodium, magnesium, chlorides are absolutely vital for proper growth and normal bodily function. Of these, potassium is one of the most vital. A variety of reasons can cause a deficiency of potassium.

Potassium

We get most of our potassium from unprocessed foods such as fish, chicken and beef. Other food types such as tomatoes, lima beans, peas, potato skins, tomatoes and green vegetables can all provide us with an abundance of potassium. As well as this, we can get potassium from fruits like bananas, melons, citrus fruits and apricots. Supplements are also available, and the best ones are those that are in the form of potassium citrate, potassium gluconate, potassium chloride, potassium acetate and potassium bicarbonate.

As for the reasons why potassium is important, it performs several vital functions. It helps us with cellular and electrical functions, and regulates blood pressure, acidity levels and water balance. Potassium also aids us greatly with regard to digestion, transmission of nerve impulses and the regulation of our heartbeat. It also has an important role in terms of muscle contraction and overall muscle function. Carbohydrate storage is also assisted by the presence of potassium.

Deficiency

A lack of potassium in the diet is likely to be the main cause of potassium deficiency. Not allowing for potassium in your diet can lead to long term problems. If you have bowel problems, such as diarrhea or regular vomiting, potassium deficiency may occur as a result. There are also some types of medicines that can cause a potassium deficiency: cortisone, diuretics and hypertension-controlling drugs can all be potential risks. In addition to all of this, hypothyroidism might also be a cause of potassium deficiency.

Hypokalemia is potentially fatal medical disorder that can result from potassium deficiency. It may manifest as a result of an underlying chronic disease or merely because of the aging process. The most regularly seen problems that arise because of potassium deficiency are arrhythmia, heart failure, depression and hypertension. Potassium can lower the body’s pH levels and increase acid levels, as well as having a negative impact on the formation of tissue.

If you experience symptoms of potassium deficiency, a blood test may be required in order to confirm this. There are numerous symptoms that might indicate potassium deficiency, including constipation, muscle weakness, fatigue, memory loss, anxiety, digestive problems, hypertension, lack of sleep. Also, one might experience thirst, dry skin, acne, heart palpitations and general weakness.