Why is Potassium Important?

Potassium helps the body convert blood sugar into glycogen which is stored energy for the muscles. Another important function of potassium is that it regulates neuromuscular activity by teaming up with calcium and magnesium.Are you low in potassium? Since many of the body's functions, voluntary and involuntary, are performed by neuromuscular contractions, many problems can result from low potassium levels:

• Muscle weakness

• Muscle cramping

• Atrophy (muscle loss?

• Depression

• Edema

• Bone and joint pain

• Fatigue

• Constipation

• Insomnia

• Nervous disorders

• Heart fibrillations

• Abnormal blood pressure

Bananas are not even top 10!Bananas tend to be thought of as the gold standard for potassium, when in fact, other foods rate much higher.The daily recommendation of potassium for the average adult is 2,000-3,000mg, with some experts saying 4,000mg is better.If your blood levels are low in potassium, supplement your diet with the best foods (3.5 oz. edible portion):

• Blackstrap Molasses 2,927 mg

• Brewer's Yeast 1,700 mg

• Sunflower Seeds 920 mg

• Almonds 773 mg

• Raisins 763 mg

• Yams 700 mg

• Dried Prunes 694 mg

• Peanuts 674 mg

• Dried Figs 640 mg

• Avocado 604 mg

• Quinoa 575 mg

• Halibut 540 mg

• Salmon 410 mg

• Broccoli 382 mg

To learn more about foods and your health, schedule an appointment with OC!