Our bodies use
Potassium to keep the heart, kidneys, muscles, nerves, and digestive system functioning properly. It is an electrolyte, a substance that conducts electricity in the body.
Keeping the right potassium balance in the body depends on the amount of sodium and magnesium in the blood. Too much sodium may increase the need for potassium. Diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating, malnutrition, malabsorption (diseases like Crohn's and
Celiac) can also cause potassium deficiency.
Foods rich in Potassium include:
- bananas
- tomatoes
- broccoli
- bananas
- potato skins
- leafy green vegetables, such as broccoli and kale
- oranges, grapefruit, other citrus fruits and dried fruits
- beans, peas, lentils, peanuts and other legumes