One of potassium’s most important functions is its effect on blood pressure. Adequate potassium helps the body excrete sodium, reduces fluid retention, and promotes blood vessel dilation, all of which contribute to lowering blood pressure. Therefore, maintaining sufficient potassium levels can help reduce the risk of hypertension and related conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.
The researchers noted that increasing dietary potassium intake was associated with a lower incidence of stroke and could also reduce the risks of coronary heart disease and total cardiovascular disease. These findings support the recommendation to consume potassium-rich foods to reduce the likelihood of vascular diseases. Potassium is an organic salt essential for bone health.
By regulating the body’s acid-base balance, potassium can help prevent bone loss. For older adults, the need for potassium increases while the body’s ability to excrete it decreases. Therefore, regulating potassium levels in the blood becomes essential.
How can we tell if our potassium levels are too high or too low? Abnormal blood potassium levels can lead to several common issues, including: Another distinctive symptom of low potassium is severe fatigue. Medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease, such as ACE inhibitors like lisinopril and benazepril, can cause potassium retention. Similarly, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, including losartan and valsartan, can also increase potassium le.