Potassium Fact Sheet

Recommended Dietary Intakes
Adults - 1950 - 5460 mg

This Vitamin Is Essential For...

Potassium is distributed throughout the body fluids including the blood, lymph and fluid in the cells. also

· water balance in the body.

· contraction of muscles.

· balance of acid and alkali.

· nerves.

· energy metabolism.

· helps prevent stroke.

· helps maintain proper blood pressure.

· protein synthesis.

· carbohydrate metabolism.

Sources...

Lean meats, raw vegetables, and fruits (especially citrus fruits, bananas, avocados and potatoes), dairy products, fish, poultry.

Comments...

There are many things that can affect the levels of potassium in the body. These include - kidney disorders, diarrhoea, the overuse of laxatives, cigarette smoking and caffeine.

Deficiencies Can Cause...

· nausea or headaches.

· vomiting and diarrhoea or constipation.

· dry skin or acne

· muscle cramps and weakness.

· poor reflexes.

· poor concentration and depression or nervousness.

· heart arrhythmia’s.

Slight potassium deficiency causes no symptoms.