| POTASSIUM: |
function: This
mineral is important for a healthy nervous system and a regular heart
rhythm. It helps prevent stroke, aids in proper muscle contraction,
and works with sodium to control the body's water balance. It is important
for chemical reactions within the cells and aids in maintaining stable
blood pressure and in transmitting electrochemical impulses. It
regulates the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes. This
function of potassium has been shown to decrease with age, which may
account for some of the circulatory damage, lethargy, and weakness
experienced by older people. |
|
manifestation from
deficiencies: abnormal dry skin, acne, chills, cognitive
impairment, constipation, depression, diarrhea, diminished reflex
function, edema, nervousness, insatiable thirst, fluctuations in
heartbeat, glucose intolerance, growth impairment, high cholesterol
levels, insomnia, low blood pressure, muscular fatigue and weakness,
nausea and vomiting, periodic headaches, proteinuria (protein in urine),
respiratory distress, and salt retention. |
|
sources: sources
include, dairy foods, fish, fruit, legumes, meat, poultry, vegetables, and
whole grains. It is especially found in apricots, avocados, bananas,
blackstrap molasses, brewer's yeast, brown rice, dates, dulse, figs, dried
fruit, garlic, nuts, potatoes, raisins, winter squash, torula yeast, wheat
bran, and yams |
|
considerations: Potassium
levels are disrupted by kidney disorders, diarrhea, and the use of
diuretics or laxatives. Tobacco and caffeine reduce
absorption. Stress increases the body's potassium
requirements. |
