Nutrients play a vital role in the overall well-being of our bodies. They provide us with energy for our day-to-day work and protect us from various diseases, like heart problems. When it comes to maintaining a healthy diet, we often focus on macronutrients like protein, carbohydrates, and fats. However, there is one more essential mineral that deserves special attention for its important role in our health, and that is potassium.
Many times, potassium is overshadowed by other nutrients. But it plays a crucial role in various functions of our body, including heart and bone health. According to WebMD, this mineral helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and activates nerve impulses. Bananas, avocados, spinach, yoghurt, salmon, lentils, watermelons, coconut water, raisins, beets and oranges are some good sources of potassium. According to Healthline, a healthy adult should consume approximately 4,700 mg of potassium daily from foods.
Here are five reasons to include potassium in your diet:
Regulates Blood Pressure
One of the most significant benefits of potassium is its ability to regulate blood pressure. It works in collaboration with sodium to maintain the balance of fluids in your body, which helps relax blood vessel walls and reduce the risk of hypertension. Adequate potassium intake is good for lowering blood pressure levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Muscle Function And Recovery
Muscles, including the heart, rely on potassium to function optimally. Potassium facilitates proper muscle contraction, enabling smooth movement and preventing muscle cramps. It also helps in post-workout recovery by replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat and reducing muscle soreness. Including potassium-rich foods in your diet can enhance overall muscle function.
Improves Bone Health
While calcium often takes most of the credit for promoting strong bones, potassium is equally important. Potassium plays a vital role in neutralising acids in the body and preventing the leaching of calcium from bones. By maintaining the acid-base balance, potassium helps preserve bone mineral density, reducing the risk of fractures.
Good For Kidney
Healthy kidney function is vital for maintaining overall health, and potassium contributes significantly to this aspect. Adequate potassium intake helps prevent the formation of kidney stones, promotes proper waste removal, and supports optimal kidney function. It also plays a role in preventing the development of kidney-related disorders.
Supports Nerve Health And Brain Function
Potassium is essential for the proper functioning of nerve cells and the transmission of electrical impulses throughout the body, including the brain. It aids in maintaining healthy brain function, improving cognitive abilities, and enhancing memory. According to WebMD, a lack of potassium in the body can make you feel tired and have cramps or constipation.