We all need plenty of potassium in our meals. Potassium is one of the most important minerals to the day-to-day health and efficiency of our bodies. It is vital to the neuron function in your brain and nerves, which is clearly necessary for every other activity and muscular contraction your body takes. For these reasons, eating potassium rich foods is of utmost important to athletes and people who go through a lot of daily physical labor - but even the sofa slugs could benefit from having increased potassium in their diets.

Based on a 2004 study, Americans consume only half as much potassium as they ought to in order to keep their body operating at full capacity. Not eating enough potassium rich foods can lead to many problems such as fatigue, cramping and even minor heart problems. And the potassium deficiency disorder known as hypokalemia may even become a problem, bringing along its many detrimental side effects. Stroke and coronary heart disease may even take effect if your potassium levels drop enough. So be on guard. Observe your daily eating habits to see what if you are getting enough potassium in your diet.

The best option available for people suffering from low potassium is simple: eat more foods rich in potassium! Most fruit, vegetables, meat and fish contain adequate levels of potassium to keep things operating regularly, but there are certain foods that are richer in potassium than the others, and ought to be included in the diet: papaya, prune, melon, banana, apricot, kiwi, mango, avocado, pumpkin, potato, tomato, squash, spinach, carrots, beets, peanuts, sunflower seeds, salmon and tuna. There are many, many more, but these ought to provide some sort of dietary direction. Keep in mind, your physician will probably encourage you to implement such a diet if you go to him concerned about the side effects of low potassium. So get a head start! Do your body a favor now that you are aware of the situation.

You may not enjoy all of these products, and that is perfectly fine. The important thing is that you know where to begin in your new and healthier diet. Potassium is important both on the clock and at home. If you want to work your best, act your best, feel your best and be your best, you need to be treating your body to the vitamins and minerals that it needs. So get your fair share of potassium before you find yourself constantly fatigued and cramped. Living a productive life requires that you take the necessary steps to ensure your body's health and regulation.