Contents:

• The role of potassium in the body
• Symptoms of potassium deficiency
• Potassium deficiency – causes

Potassium is one of the most important ions in the human body. Along with sodium, it is a major component of intercellular spaces and crucial for regulating cell membrane activity. It is also an electrolyte necessary for regulating the body's water balance. We suggest how to recognize the early symptoms that indicate a potassium deficiency.

The role of potassium in the body

Potassium is a component of the electrolyte group (which also includes sodium and chlorine). The highest amounts of potassium are found in dried fruits (e.g., dried apricots contain 1600 mg/100 g), as well as nuts, seeds, and cocoa . It is found in vegetables, including beets, spinach , and tomatoes, meat, and grain products.

• Potassium ensures the body's proper water and electrolyte balance.
• Participates in the regulation of cell pH and osmotic pressure and is responsible for the retention of water in the cell.
• Potassium is involved in the burning of carbohydrates and proteins.
• It is an ingredient that supports the work of the nervous system and muscles.
• Potassium is responsible for the proper functioning of processes in the nervous system and, among other things, supports the maintenance of a normal heart rhythm.

Symptoms of potassium deficiency

It's worth noting that serious problems with potassium deficiency are quite rare. It can be easily supplied to the body through food, as it is present in most foods. However, if the bioavailability of this ingredient is lower in individual cases, long-term potassium deficiency—known as hypokalemia—can occur.

What symptoms can indicate a potassium deficiency? The most common symptoms are:

• painful cramps (especially in the calves) and swelling,
• uncontrollable tremors and general muscle weakness
• irregular heart rhythm (particularly noticeable during heat waves)
• Constipation and digestive problems,
• high blood pressure
• chronic fatigue,
• Nervousness and irritability.

Hypokalemia is quite rare in healthy people with a varied diet. However, it is important to react when we observe similar symptoms, especially in children and the elderly. A mild potassium deficiency in the elderly can manifest itself, for example, as general weakness, a feeling of disorientation, persistent fatigue, or apathetic behavior – which can often be difficult to detect.

Potassium deficiency – causes

Potassium deficiency can primarily be caused by dehydration. Potassium is absorbed in the intestines from digested food. This component is excreted via the kidneys. This means that one of the main causes of potassium deficiency can be excessive fluid loss—which can have various causes.

• The excretion of potassium from the body can be impaired by diuretics (diuretics), but also by blood pressure regulating preparations.
• Another cause of potassium deficiency (as well as its symptom) can be long-term problems related to the functioning of the digestive system and metabolism.
• Diabetics can also face problems meeting their potassium needs.

Especially in summer, during hot weather, potassium deficiency can develop and impair functioning. In such cases, the use of electrolytes and potassium supplementation is often recommended to ensure, among other things, proper functioning of the heart muscle, urinary tract, and well-being.