Stay Healthy Magazine Jan/Feb 2019

Page 12

12 resulting in fatigue and general weakness. And this kind of fatigue is not a result of overworking or overexertion, and you may be getting enough sleep but still feel exhausted. 2. High Blood Pressure Potassium plays a significant role in relaxing blood vessels and, therefore, inadequate amount of the mineral can lead to constriction of the vessels. By Dr. Richards M.D. Nevada

7 Signs You Are Not Getting Enough Potassium Potassium is one of the most important minerals in the body, but you probably don’t hear much about it. Unfortunately, it’s often difficult for many people to notice the warning signs of potassium deficiency. To help you with that, we’re giving you some of the top signs that you need more potassium. Continue on to learn more... 1. Always Feeling Tired

This will cause hypertension. So next time you visit your doctor be sure to have your blood pressure checked. 3. Primarily Eats Processed Foods If you’re always consuming processed foods on a daily basis, then you’re likely to suffer potassium deficiency because most of the foods such as frozen meals, crackers, and chips contain a high amount of sodium. You’ll need to reduce the salty foods you eat so that your body can retain more of potassium to keep your blood pressure at a healthy level.

Are you tired constantly? A general feeling 4. Heart Skips A Beat of fatigue is a common sign of low potassiDoes your heart start to pound unexpectum levels in the body. edly, or you feel it keeps skipping beats Since every cell needs an appropriate (palpitations) without a reason you can amount of potassium in order to function easily discover? properly, a deficiency of this mineral can While there are a lot of factors that can affect the cells and other organs— cause this, potassium deficiency contrib-

ute the most. 5. Feel Faint Or Dizzy If the potassium levels drop significantly, it can cause slow heartbeat and, of course, make you feel as if you’re about to pass out. It is important to note that this sign is not common, and so you’re advised to see the doctor as soon as possible should you experience it. 6. Constipation You didn’t expect this, right? Well, low levels of potassium can affect other bodily functions, including slowing down the digestive system. Basically, your body will be struggling to regulate its sodium levels, and this could result in salt-induced bloating as well as abdominal cramping. But keep in mind that, there are lots of things other than low potassium levels that can cause the abnormal puffiness. 7. Tingling and Numbness Potassium is vital for the health of the nerves. Inadequate amount of this mineral can cause the annoying pins and needles sensation. Also, potassium helps with smooth muscle contraction. Therefore, low levels may make you experience aches and spasms.


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