A part of every cell in the body, potassium is an essential nutrient. Life is literally impossible without this one key element. As such, potassium is an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions and a necessary dietary component for preventing an array of health issues.
Health Benefits of Potassium
As potassium plays such a vital role in the body, getting enough of the nutrient is crucial for good health. The nutrient also functions as an effective health treatment when used as a supplement. A diet high in potassium has such effects as reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering the risk of cancer, and decreasing the risk of obesity.
Additionally, potassium is used to treat specific conditions. Eye dryness, gout, lupus, high cholesterol, stroke, and heart disease can all be treated and prevented using potassium.
As with any nutritional supplement, potassium must be taken in moderation. In appropriate doses, however, the nutrient offers ample health benefits and produces positive effects on the heart and the rest of the body.
What is Potassium?
A fairly simple mineral, potassium is often overlooked as an essential mineral. At its core, potassium is crucial for life and bodily function. Its main purpose is to help the heartbeat. Potassium actually triggers the squeezing or pumping of the heart that feeds blood throughout the body.
Potassium is an abundant mineral that is found in both the soil and in seawater. The nutrient is considered a critical electrolyte that feeds the body. This singular nutrient is responsible for enabling muscle movement, motivating nerve function, and filtering blood in the kidneys. The body must have an adequate or appropriate balance of the nutrient to facilitate the beating of the heart and the functioning of the cardiovascular system.
Most individuals get an adequate amount of potassium daily by eating a normal diet. Fruits and vegetables are typically the main sources of potassium in an individual’s diet. However, potassium is also found in dairy products, whole grains, meat, and fish. Potatoes, tomatoes, avocados, fresh fruit, orange juice, dried fruit, spinach, beans, and peas are among the best sources of potassium.
Continue reading below for feedback from Earth Clinic readers who have supplemented with potassium to treat certain health ailments. Let us know what you have used potassium for!