How potassium deficiency affects our heart

Potassium is an essential nutrient for heart 

health and should be made a part of a balanced diet. It not only helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure but also lowers the chances of developing Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) such as heart attack and stroke.

As an electrolyte, potassium supports nerve and muscle function, regulates heart activity, and aids in the movement of nutrients and waste within your body's cells. While the connection between potassium and heart health is complex, it is well-established.

Signs Of Potassium Deficiency:

According to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the daily requirement for potassium varies based on age and gender. For healthy adults aged 19-50, the recommended intake is 3,400 mg for males and 2,600 mg for females. For pregnant and lactating women, potassium requirements are a little higher, with 2,900 mg and 2,800 mg being the recommended amounts, respectively.

If potassium levels in the body are low and one does not fulfil their daily recommended intake, they are likely to experience various symptoms. These include:

• Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
• Palpitations (a feeling of skipped heartbeats or fluttering in the chest)
• Weakness or fatigue due to impaired heart muscle function
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• extreme cases, chest pain or heart failure

you're low on potassium or are suffering from hypokalaemia, here are some cardiovascular problems and symptoms you may experience:

• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Heart failure, or even sudden cardiac arrest in severe cases.
• How To Restore Potassium Levels In The Body
• Here's how you can increase potassium levels in your body:
• Consuming potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, potatoes, avocados, and leafy greens
• Taking potassium supplements, if prescribed by a healthcare provider
• Addressing underlying health issues or adjusting medications that may be causing potassium loss
• Maintaining hydration to prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate potassium imbalances
• Regular monitoring of potassium levels, especially for individuals at risk of heart problems
• If you're low on potassium or are suffering from hypokalaemia, here are some cardiovascular problems and symptoms you may experience:

• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Heart failure, or even sudden cardiac arrest in severe cases.
• How To Restore Potassium Levels In The Body

Here's how you can increase potassium levels in your body:

• Consuming potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, potatoes, avocados, and leafy greens
• Taking potassium supplements, if prescribed by a healthcare provider
• Addressing underlying health issues or adjusting medications that may be causing potassium loss
• Maintaining hydration to prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate potassium imbalances
• Regular monitoring of potassium levels, especially for individuals at risk of heart problems

Experts concluded that potassium is essential for maintaining the electrical conductivity of the heart. It helps regulate the balance of sodium and potassium across cell membranes, which controls the electrical impulses that keep the heart beating rhythmically. Without sufficient potassium, the heart's electrical system can malfunction, leading to arrhythmias and other cardiovascular problems.

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