Importance of Potassium in the Diet

My mother died due to a series of strokes brought on by not eating after my father's death. It was found while she was in the hospital that her levels of Potassium, an essential mineral for heart function, were very low. Why the doctor did not order an intravenous supplement of that precious life-giving mineral, I'll never know.

Potassium is vital for proper muscle function, the heart being one of the largest and most important muscles in the body. One thing about being on a low-carb way of life is to make sure and get this mineral. I havae been awakened in the middle of the night with horrible pain due to "charley-horses" in my legs, which is indicative of a lack of Potassium. It is important, then, to lose the fat but at the same time preserve and build muscle tissue.

Potassium also helps to keep the blood pressure lower, which is important as we get older, especially if we are overweight and/or have hypertension. Diets rich in fruits, veggies and whole grains may help prevent stroke and heart attacks, especially in people with high blood pressure. Of course, a low-carb diet, especially in the beginning, cuts out the grains and the high glycemic-impact fruits. One banana is a great source of potassium, but is an entire day's worth of carbs!! Tomatoes are better, as their glycemic impact is lower. Of course, you can also take potassium in pill form. As with anything, please consult your doctor before doing this.