Many of us have studied potassium in science class in high school or college, but few of us have considered its implications as a mineral in our daily eating habits. Potassium is something that we all need to consume on a regular basis. Without it, our bodies experience fatigue-related symptoms. But which are the potassium rich foods that our bodies need? What should we be adding to our diets to make up for this lost potassium? We will answer these questions momentarily, giving insight into why potassium is a necessity for any healthy eater.

One of the major functions of potassium in your body is the regulation of neuromuscular activity of the skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle. Therefore, it is easy to see why we become fatigued when we do not get adequate amounts of potassium rich foods. The muscle activity weakens and causes us to tire. Hypokalemia is the result of a potassium deficiency. Among the greater effects of hypokalemia are serious arrhythmias, muscle weakness and myalgia, disturbed heart rhythm and a higher risk of hyponatremia with confusion and seizures. Even if one does not have this condition there are still some poor side effects to a lack of potassium in the diet, such as weakness, cramping in the muscles, numbness, constipation and abnormal heart rhythms.

The good news is that one can correct his or her diet simply by eating more foods rich in potassium, and even taking potassium supplements that can be picked up at a local grocery store. Some of those foods that are especially good at increasing your potassium levels are bananas, oranges, strawberries, avocado, brussel sprouts, potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, certain dairy products and fish. Chances are that if you contact your physician regarding symptoms of low potassium, he would help you begin implementing a diet full of these foods. Even if you are not fond of some of the items on this list, find some recipes that you do like and start eating healthy. Your body will be very glad you took notice of its situation.

Our bodies are valuable resources. Potassium is one of the many minerals that our body needs to function properly. So do your research. Check your own health. Do you need to start consuming more potassium? If so, act quickly to avoid hypokalemia and the many frustrating side effects that come with it. Foods rich in potassium will not only help increase your potassium levels, but they will also provide you with other valuable vitamins and minerals that your body will be so grateful for.