Low potassium

Why a Low Potassium Level is BadPotassium is an important mineral micro nutrient of nutrition. Most of the potassium in the body (over 98%) can be found within the cells, however whatever little of it is found outside the cells is no less important, and even the slightest alteration in this potassium level can produce severe effects on some of the bodies organs. A low potassium level would mean that the organs would not be getting sufficient potassium, and potassium is needed for various functions including the movement of muscles in the arms and legs, the heart beating and regulating blood pressure. Thus due to these multiple functions, a low potassium level can indeed cause mild, or in some cases, more severe, medical problems. The kidney normally regulates the potassium level by removing access potassium through urine. Still, it is surprising to note that studies have shown how one in five people have a low potassium level, although in most cases it is only slightly lower than normal but still may cause some small problems.

How Low Potassium Levels Can Be Due To DietWhile most of the causes of a low potassium level normally are due to things like kidney disorders, leukemia, magnesium deficiencies, diuretics, diarrhea, or vomiting, some cases could be due o something as simple as malnutrition or not having a balanced diet. Potassium should form an essential part of the diet of most people, however of late there are increasing cases where, due to various factors, people seem to be not taking enough potassium and this is a cause of a low potassium level. According to doctors, the healthy intake of potassium in a daily diet to ensure that no low potassium level is reported is about 4,700 mg of potassium. Despite this, there are indications that typically many people consume only half this amount, thus leading to a variety of medical issues.

The Symptom of Low Potassium: Mild and SeriousVery often a symptom o low potassium is not present despite the low potassium level a person may have. Many of these symptoms can be mild and vague however, there are other symptoms that can be more acute. Hypokalemia is one such symptom of low potassium in body fluids. This condition causes muscle weakness, ECG abnormalities, and can in more severe cases cause respiratory collapse, and arrhythmia. Another symptom of low potassium is fainting and abnormal psychological behaviour. All of these symptoms are due to the important role potassium plays within the body, and is unable to do so due to the low level of potassium. Generally if even one sign of low potassium is exhibited, a trip to the doctor is advised for further investigation. Not taking action could be a recipe for disaster in the case of low potassium levels.

What Food Can Help A Low Potassium LevelThere are many foods rich in potassium that can help with a low potassium level. These include things such as oranges, bananas, avocados, potatoes, apricots, turnips and parsnips. Other types of vegetables and meat also contain high levels of potassium, and thus eating as much of these foods as possible can help. However it should be said that people with kidney diseases are advised to avoid eating foods with high potassium due to the fact that the kidneys ability to regulate the potassium level and excrete excess potassium may be compromised. Without this ability, a buildup of potassium in the blood my result and can lead to fatal heart conditions.