Potassium works with sodium and chloride as an electrolyte (a mineral salt that conducts electricity when dissolved in water). Electrolytes are crucial to the balance of body fluids and the control of acid/alkaline levels. The balance between potassium & sodium in the body is what will have the greatest effect on physiology and health.

Much research has demonstrated that sodium high/potassium low diets are implicated in the development of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke & cancer. A ratio of 5:1 potassium to sodium is believed to be necessary for the maintenance of health and prevention of degenerative disease. Potassium is easily lost in sweat and needs to be replaced after heavy exercise, up to 3,000mg a day can be lost through sweat alone, so a daily intake of 4,000mg is recommended.

Functions of Potassium:

Necessary for correct fluid balance, Necessary for controlling acid/alkali balance, Required for protein, and nucleic acid synthesis, Required for the proper elimination of carbon dioxide, Essential for proper nerve & muscle function, Essential for heart function, Essential for adrenal & kidney function, Prevents heart disease, high blood pressure, strokes, and cancer.

Dietary sources of Potassium include:

Bananas, Brewer's yeast, Dried figs/prunes, Wheat germ, Almonds, Raisins and sultanas, Dates, Jacket potatoes, Halibut, Avocado, Spinach, Chickpeas, Butter beans

Potassium deficiency symptoms include:

Weakness of skeletal muscles, Heart arrhythmias, Poor peristaltic action of the gut, Mental depression, Confusion, Fatigue, Vomiting, Dizziness, Water retention, Excessive thirst, Low blood pressure, Poor excretory function (kidneys)

Enemies:

Certain drugs
Too much coffee, salt or alcohol
Potassium in vegetables can be lost in cooking water

RDA for Potassium

US RDA: 3.5g

EU RDA: 3.5g