Athletes are well aware of the importance of electrolytes for supporting health and for promoting optimal performance, but most of us rarely consider the fact that the body needs to maintain a constant balance of electrolytes such as potassium in order to ensure long-term health.
Electrolytes are minerals that are present in body fluids and in the cells of your body and they are vital for regulating fluid balance and other functions. Potassium is one of the primary electrolytes in your body,[1] and it is responsible for ensuring healthy electrical function.
The Importance of Potassium
Most of the potassium in your body is found in the cells, with only approximately 2% of potassium being found in your blood stream. Relatively small fluctuations in potassium levels can have severe consequences on your health.
Your body relies on electrical signals to function normally. Potassium plays a vital role in supporting electrical function and signal transmission. This means that muscular function relies on the availability of potassium, and without sufficient potassium, muscles may not have the ability to function efficiently.
Since the heart is one of the most important muscles in the body, potassium is vital for supporting heart muscle function and for supporting overall cardiovascular health.
Causes of Low Potassium Levels (Hypokalemia)
Most people who eat a healthy diet should get enough potassium naturally. However, many Americans don’t eat a healthy diet and may be deficient in potassium.
There are other factors that can contribute to low potassium levels. One of the primary reasons for low potassium levels is the use of certain medications like diuretics.
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