Potassium plays a fundamental role for the body's electrolyte balance ; it is contained mainly in muscle cells and is very important for the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system .
Effects of potassium deficiency
A too low concentration of potassium in the blood is rarely caused by an insufficient intake with the diet: it is, in fact, a ubiquitous trace element that is found, that is, in many foods and also in water.
With the exception of special cases, such as, for example, prolonged fasting, anorexia or insufficient nutrition, it is very difficult for the body to guarantee sufficient supply of potassium through food.
The problem, therefore, in most cases, more than for an insufficient intake, is due to the excessive losses of potassium that can occur, for example, through faeces and urine and be caused for reasons such as repeated episodes of diarrhea, excessive use of diuretics, etc.
Sportspeople must pay particular attention to potassium intake as physical activity predisposes to losses that occur partly through sweating and partly due to insufficient savings mechanism.
The effects of potassium deficiency are different and can be more or less serious; a slight lack of potassium can cause weakness and difficulty concentrating ; when the deficiency becomes more serious, moderate to very serious symptoms may appear, including bone fragility, tachycardia, hypertension and water retention .
A too low potassium concentration has negative effects on the whole organism, but it is dangerous above all for the health of the cardiovascular system as it can involve abnormal heart rhythm, even very serious ones.
Read more about the lack of potassium
When to use potassium supplementation
When this trace element is deficient, it is possible to help with specific potassium supplements. However, potassium supplementation should always be agreed with the doctor as it is not recommended for everyone; for example, it is indicated in people suffering from kidney failure or liver failure .
Furthermore, excessive consumption of potassium supplements can have adverse health effects and can lead to very serious consequences.
Effects of excess potassium
Too high a concentration of potassium in the blood is rare and is a condition that occurs mainly in people with chronic or acute renal failure.
The effects of excess potassium can also be very serious; in fact, alterations in heart rhythm, too low blood pressure and dehydration can occur. In the most severe cases, excess potassium can cause cardiac arrest.
