Potassium is the third most abundant mineral in the body after calcium and phosphorus. It can take on a positive or negative charge when dissolved in the water medium of the bloodstream. It is an important electrolyte needed with the electrolytes sodium and chloride to balance the body and perform a host of essential functions. Almost all the potassium in the body is found inside the cells.
Along with other electrolytes, potassium is used to conduct nerve impulses, initiate muscle contractions and regulate heartbeat and blood pressure. It controls the amount of fluid inside the cells and sodium regulates the amount outside, so the two minerals work to balance fluid levels in the body. This balance occurs in all of the body systems. Potassium also enables the body to convert blood sugar (glucose) – its primary fuel – into a stored form of energy (glycogen) that is held in reserve by the muscles and the liver to be used later.
Studies show that people who get plenty of potassium in their diets have lower blood pressure. This effect holds true even when sodium intake remains high, although reducing sodium produces better results. Through the effects on blood pressure, potassium may also decrease the risk of heart disease and stoke. Low levels in women increases the risks about five times greater.
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