Shubhi
Potassium (K) is the third most abundant mineral found in the human body. Potassium is a health insurer as it keeps the heart beating.
Your body needs potassium to:
- Maintain normal body growth.
- Break down and use carbohydrates.
- Build protein.
- Enable the growth of muscle tissues.
- Facilitate the proper functioning of the heart and the kidneys.
- Keep the skin cells hydrated and moisturized.
Table Of Contents
Symptoms of Low Levels Of Potassium In A Human
- Severe headaches
- Weakness in muscles
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Anemia
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- High blood pressure, etc.
Benefits Of Potassium
1. Curing Dry Skin:
One of the reasons why many people suffer from dry skin is due to the deficiency of potassium. Potassium keeps the skin moisturized and hydrated internally. So, to cure dry skin, start eating potassium rich fruits and vegetables like bananas, potatoes, etc.
[ Read: Omega 3 Rich Foods ]
2. Elevating Low Blood Sugar Levels:
A deficiency in the potassium levels in the body causes low blood sugar in humans. The effects of low blood sugar are: sweating, headaches, trembling and nervousness. You can overcome this problem by including potassium-rich food in your diet.
3. Reducing Hair Fall:
There are many reasons for hair loss like stress, pollution etc. Potassium deficiency can be one of the reasons for hair loss but many people are unaware of it. Bananas and almonds are rich in potassium and, if you eat them daily, you will soon notice a reduction in the hair loss. You can also take potassium supplements, but consult a doctor first.
4. Relief From Cramps:
Since muscle tissues require potassium for smooth functioning, a deficiency of this mineral in the blood results in muscle cramps. Intake of bananas or other potassium-rich foods helps in getting relief from such cramps.
[ Read: Sodium Restricted Diet ]
5. Brain Function:
Potassium helps in carrying oxygen to the brain. The important functions of the brain like memorizing and learning are also supported by potassium.
6. New Skin Cell Growth:
Apart from keeping the cells hydrated, potassium also supports the growth of new skin cells. If your skin does not produce enough new cells, it will appear cracked and dull. Also, if the natural growth of the skin cells is balanced, blemishes and scars fade away after some time.
7. Maintaining pH Level:
Potassium hydroxide is used in a lot of cosmetics and skin care products. It acts as a pH level balancer for the skin. It absorbs the water molecules from the environment and hydrates the skin. Of course, instead of using this mineral through cosmetics, you can go the natural way and include it in your regular diet.
8. Hair Growth:
If the hair growth rate is slow and you are looking for natural ways to increase it, potassium will help you achieve that. People who eat more salt are likely to suffer from deficiency of potassium, which aids the normal growth of cells. Cutting down on the intake of table salt will have a positive effect on the potassium levels and hence the hair growth.
9. Kidney Function:
It helps in keeping the kidney clean and supports its functioning. In addition, this mineral also assists the kidneys in removing waste by the process of excretion. Thus, it keeps the body clean.
10. Muscle Strength And Disorder:
The muscles require the right quantity of potassium for regular contraction and relaxation. Potassium ensures proper growth of the muscle tissues. A deficiency in the potassium levels in the body can cause muscle paralysis.
[ Read: Copper History ]
Healthy Foods That Are High in Potassium
- Oranges
- Bananas
- Spinach
- Almonds
- Yams
- Tomato puree
- Dried apricots
- Pineapples
Now that you know all about the benefits of potassium what are you waiting for? Now you can stay healthy, get beautiful skin and increase hair growth just by eating a few potassium-rich fruits and vegetables. Share your experiences with us by shooting a comment below.