Potassium deficiency: heart in danger

Our general eating habits mean that we consume too little potassium. Instead of the vital mineral potassium, which is found mainly in whole grain products, vegetables and nuts, the ratio to products containing table salt has almost reversed. In addition to this latent undersupply through daily food, there is also a hypothyroidism, a gastrointestinal disease, fistula in the intestine, bulimia or anorexia, the potassium content in the blood (hypokalemia) drops to a dangerous level. The consequences are fatigue, headaches, dizziness, nausea, but also constipation, muscle cramps, paralysis and circulatory problems up to Hypertension and serious cardiac arrhythmias.

Prevent potassium deficiency with a healthy lifestyle

A potassium deficiency can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle. Drinking enough fluids and avoiding alcohol are the first steps to stabilizing potassium levels. In addition, a high potassium-rich diet should be avoided. Nutrition These include whole grain products, dried fruit, avocados, bananas, potatoes, preferably with the skin on, nuts, lamb's lettuce and broccoli. Those who buy regionally and seasonally also have the advantage of being able to rely on outdoor products for many months of the year. These have been proven to have a higher potassium content than greenhouse vegetables. Reusing cooking water, for example for sauces, also promotes more potassium in daily meals. But the potassium consumed through food is not always enough.

80 percent of Germans do not reach the recommended daily amount of potassium

Contrary to the information provided by the German Nutrition Society (DEG), which states that 2 grams of potassium per day is sufficient, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended 2013 grams per day since 3,5. Studies in the USA from 2017 have now determined 4,7 grams per day as healthy and necessary. A value that 80 percent of Germans do not reach. The initial assumptions of US doctors, however, suggest that the increased potassium content improves blood pressure and thus blood flow. This would protect the arteries and prevent arteriosclerosis is actively prevented. A healthy person need not fear that too much potassium is harmful to the organism, as the body excretes the excess potassium.

Potassium-rich diet protects blood vessels

It is therefore advisable to have your potassium levels checked in any case, and if there is a deficiency, you can restore your potassium levels by changing your diet and taking special potassium supplements. Patients with potassium deficiency are advised to have regular cardiovascular check recommended. These should only be taken on medical advice. If the potassium balance is correct, not only blood vessels and heart are protected, but also Diabetes, osteoporosis, constipation and unpleasant side effects of medications improve.