Potassium helps maintain a cellular equilibrium in the body – which is the basis of our very being.
Potassium is one of the most important minerals, 98% of which is present intracellularly. The body uses Potassium on a daily basis and the kidneys excrete any excess.
Know Your Nutrient:
- Potassium works as an electrolyte to maintain fluid balance in cells.
- It generates nerve impulses.
- Helps in muscle contractions and regulates heartbeats.
- It aids in increasing calcium absorption.
In a nutshell, Potassium is responsible for regulating blood pressure, preventing strokes and abnormal heart palpitations, reducing water retention, and maintaining good bone health. Its role is thus emphasized as a post-workout mineral to prevent dehydration and muscle cramps.
The deficiency of potassium can lead to muscle cramps and stiffness, tiredness, fatigue, irregular heartbeats, tingles, numbness, and mood swings.
Potassium Friendly Foods:
Cereals: Finger millet (ragi).
Legumes and pulses
Vegetables: Colocasia (arbi), sweet potato (shakarkand), lotus stems, tomatoes, avocados.
Fruits: Banana, nectarine, cantaloupe, apricots and dried fruit like prunes and dates.
So next time you want to crack that high-intensity workout with optimum energy and the best of mood, make sure you have pepped up your potassium intake!
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