Question

What serious health problem can result from not getting enough potassium in the diet?

Answer 1

Answer:

Potassium  have many duties as an important mineral in our body. It helps in regulation of muscle contractions, fluid balance and maintenance of healthy nerve function. Potassium deficiency ( hypokalemia) is characterized by a blood potassium level below 3.5mmol/liter. It occurs when our body loses a lot of fluid. Common causes include diarrhoea,excessive sweating and blood loss.  8 signs & symptoms of potassium deficiency are:

• Weakness & fatigue
• Muscle cramps & spasms
• Digestive disorders like bloating & constipation
• Heart palpitations can cause arrhythmia
• Muscle aches & stiffness
• Tingling & numbness
• Breathing difficulties
• Mood changes

Sources of potassium are:

Fruits , vegetables, beans & nuts

Lists of food which are excellent source of potassium along with the percentage of RDI found in a 100 gram serving:

Beet greens, cooked: 26% of the RDI

Yams, baked: 19% of the RDI

White beans, cooked: 18% of the RDI  

Clams, cooked: 18% of the RDI

White potatoes, baked: 16% of the RDI  

Sweet potatoes, baked: 14% of the RDI

Avocado: 14% of the RDI  

Pinto beans, cooked: 12% of the RDI  

Bananas: 10% of the  RDI