Symptoms of potassium deficiency
Potassium, the atomic number 19 and the element symbol K, is the main cation contained in the largest amount in the intracellular fluid, and plays a role in maintaining the potential of the cell membrane and at the same time determining the ionic strength of the intracellular fluid. Since it acts as a mineral that plays an essential role in normal metabolism, a deficiency in the body can cause various abnormal symptoms. So today, let’s look at the various symptoms that occur when the body lacks potassium. Symptoms of potassium deficiency
1. Increased blood pressure
When potassium is insufficient inside the body, a typical symptom that appears is an increase in blood pressure. Potassium plays an essential role in maintaining normal blood pressure by balancing it with sodium as a major electrolyte in body fluids. Therefore, a lack of potassium causes an excessive accumulation of sodium, which leads to an increase in blood pressure. And when it is prolonged, excessive accumulation of sodium increases the incidence of cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure and heart disease. In addition, this excessive accumulation of sodium can cause the body to cause swelling and edema.
2. Irregular heartbeat
When the level of potassium in the blood is low, irregular heartbeat phenomena such as heartbeat or rapid heartbeat appear for no apparent reason. Hypokalemia, especially caused by extremely low potassium intake, may be the cause of arrhythmias caused by problems with the formation and transmission of electrical signals in the heartbeat.
3. Chronic Fatigue
Potassium, along with sodium ions in the intracellular fluid, is involved in roles such as maintaining cell osmotic pressure and water balance, and regulating nerves. Therefore, insufficient intake of potassium can cause problems with these normal metabolic functions, which can lead to chronic fatigue, which cannot be relieved even if you get enough rest.
4. muscle cramps
Potassium is also involved in properly regulating muscle contraction and relaxation by regulating the excitation and transmission of impulses in nerve and muscle cells. In particular, potassium plays an important role in smooth muscle contraction, and a lack of potassium can cause muscle cramps and pain. In addition, when potassium is insufficient, symptoms of numbness due to nerve abnormalities and cramps in the legs can occur continuously.
5. Dizziness
Potassium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in the nervous system, so insufficient potassium intake can cause dizziness. Such vertigo may last from a few minutes to several hours, and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of balance due to vertigo may also appear.
6. Poor Gastrointestinal Function
Because potassium plays an essential role in metabolism throughout the body, prolonged deficiencies can slow down other body functions. The stomach is no exception, so a potassium deficiency can lead to stomach bloating and abdominal pain. In addition, constipation, which is a symptom of not having a bowel movement normally, is a symptom accompanying a lack of potassium intake. How to supplement with potassium
Potassium is found in almost all foods. Bananas, apples, oranges, melons, peaches, tangerines, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, taro, green beans, and red beans are found in many foods. At this time, since potassium is water-soluble, it should be done in a short time when cooking with water. And, as much is lost during processing, it is recommended to eat natural foods as much as possible. Potassium plays an essential role in the body, but too much can cause problems. Excessive intake of potassium can cause stomach upset, and can impair heart function as potassium accumulates in the blood. Also, if you have kidney disease, it is recommended to be careful because it can cause problems such as hyperkalemia by causing an excessive accumulation of potassium in the body due to not controlling potassium normally.
We looked into the various symptoms of abnormal potassium intake due to insufficient intake. I hope that the various information introduced will be helpful and I hope you have a happy and healthy day today.
