Dive into Health and Healing
Why Do We Need Potassium?
Low potassium is something I see in men, women and children's hair analyses - often in conjunction with high barium.
Without adequate levels of potassium we may feel fatigued, weak and constipated. In hair analysis low potassium equates to low thyroid function.
Potassium acts as an alkalizing agent along with magnesium to neutralize acid buildup in our bodies. When our bodies become too acidic, inflammatory processes begin in an effort to combat over-acidity. Inflammation is the driver of chronic disease.
Potassium is an electrolyte needed to convey nerve signals and muscle contractions throughout the body. Potassium is also needed to regulate cellular pressure paired with sodium.
Sodium sits outside the cells and potassium is intracellular. A diet high in sodium and low in potassium increases blood pressure. Adding potassium rich foods to your diet helps to re-balance the sodium/potassium balance.
Reducing sodium may not be the best thing for blood pressure but increasing potassium will help us reach our dietary requirement of 3,800 mg per day.
American statistics show less than 2 percent of the population consume enough potassium. The low levels I see in hair analyses indicate that we are not too different.
The good news is that dietary potassium is found abundantly in a wide array of fruits and vegies. Hence the adage: "EAT A RAINBOW!"
Best dietary sources for potassium:
- spinach
- potatoes
- red cabbage
- corn
- Brussels sprouts
- beetroot
- parsley
- pumpkin
- cauliflower
- sweet potato
- bok choy
Do not take potassium supplements without consulting your natural health practitioner.
Don't let feeling unwell become your new normal. Experience what it is like to live in a ‘herbal body’ or having your nutrition corrected.
As your experienced naturopath, I can help you understand your unique chemistry and guide you toward natural solutions for lasting balance and vitality.
