When in the body, potassium is an electrolyte. It is essential in the healthy function of cells and of various functions of the body; it is especially necessary for proper function of the nerves and muscles. Potassium deficiency, also known as hypokalemia, can cause irregular heart rhythms, high blood pressure, a breakdown in the muscle fibers, constipation, fatigue, muscle weakness and can sometimes lead to paralysis.
Potassium in Our Foods
Potassium is prevalent in so many of the foods that we eat that deficiency doesn't usually occur because of a lack of potassium in the diet. However, it doesn't take a drastic drop in potassium to start interfering with the body's natural function so it is important that we include foods that are high in potassium to be certain that we are getting enough dietary potassium. According to the National Institute of Health, these foods include bananas, bran, Brussels sprouts, granola, kiwi, oranges, milk, lima beans, peaches, peanut butter, peas, beans and tomatoes.
Causes of Potassium Deficiency
There are many things that can cause a deficiency and some of them include treatments that are necessary for other ailments. These treatments include taking diuretics or some antibiotics. If you are on any of these treatments, it is important to include potassium in your regular diet, up to and including supplements, if necessary. If the deficiency becomes too severe your doctor may recommend discontinuing these treatments until the deficiency is corrected. Other causes of deficiency include diarrhea, vomiting, eating disorders such as bulimia, excessive sweating or certain kidney problems. Treating these problems can help curb potassium loss and allow the body to restore its natural levels.
Putting Potassium Back into Your System
Eating foods that are high in potassium is the best way to put the natural potassium back into your body. Drinking electrolyte-enriched drinks such as Gatorade or Pedialyte for infants and children is also helpful for putting back the necessary electrolytes including potassium. It may, however, become necessary for your doctor to prescribe potassium supplements to get your body back to normal. This usually occurs if levels are between 2.5 and 3.5 mEq/L. It is essential that you have your blood tested before starting potassium supplements as an overabundance of potassium can cause problems too. Only use these supplements under a doctor's care.
If the deficiency is extreme--2.5 mEq/L or less--hospitalization may be needed and an IV started immediately to administer potassium supplements intravenously. In these cases, and especially if arrhythmia is present, cardiac monitoring is also suggested until the patient is stabilized.
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