5 Signs You’re Not Getting Enough Potassium

Potassium aids in muscle contraction, fluid regulation, and mineral balance. What’s more, potassium blunts the effects of excessive sodium consumption.  A potassium-rich diet helps the body flush out sodium. It also helps relax blood vessel walls and, in turn, lower blood pressure. Increasing your potassium intake while reducing your sodium intake can slash your stroke risk by 21%, and may also lower your odds of heart disease.

Here are the biggest signs you’re running low:

1. You’re always tired

If you can’t seem to rest enough and your energy levels are low, you may be potassium deficient. Every cell in your body needs the right amount of potassium to function. If you are increasingly exhausted and know you are getting enough sleep, potassium might be the cause. That said, other issues with your diet, stress, or sleep deprivation can also leave you feeling chronically sluggish, so you shouldn’t assume a potassium deficiency is the culprit.

2. You have muscle weakness or cramping

Potassium plays a key role in smooth muscle contraction, both in the heart and across the entire body. So when levels are low, you might experience aches and spasms throughout the day or while exercising.

3. You feel faint, dizzy, or tingly

Potassium can wax and wane throughout the day, and a large drop can slow your heartbeat, making you feel like you’re going to pass out. This is not common, and many other factors can be the cause, but it’s important to see your doctor if you experience this. Tingling arms or legs is another signal you shouldn’t ignore.

4. You have high blood pressure or palpitations

Without enough potassium, blood vessel walls can become constricted, which results in hypertension. Also, watch out for heart palpitations as the heart muscle has more difficulty pumping when the sodium-potassium balance is out of whack.

5. You’re bloated all the time

When you’re low on potassium, your body struggles to regulate its sodium levels and can cause salt-induced bloating.

If you experience one of the symptoms above, you should check in with your doctor if you suspect you need more potassium. Contact Myers Street Family Medical Practice on 03 5229 5192 or The Cottage Medical Clinic on 03 5241 6129 to schedule a consultation with one of our medical professionals.

Sourced from Health.com