The Virtues Of Potassium
Potassium is an important mineral for the body. In particular, it contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, normal muscle function and the maintenance of normal blood pressure. Let’s learn more about the virtues of potassium.
What are the virtues of potassium?
Potassium2-5 plays a role in regulating pH and cell volume. It regulates the acid-base balance. Potassium secretion is reduced in acute acidosis and increased in acute alkalosis. A higher pH increases potassium channel activity and potassium/sodium pump activity. In general, chronic metabolic acidosis is still usually associated with hypokalemia.
It is involved in protein synthesis and in the functioning of many enzymes. In addition, the transmembrane potassium gradient will control cellular production, neuromuscular excitability and cardiac rhythmicity. Due to its role associated with sodium at the level of the pumps, it helps maintain optimal hydration of the cells by regulating intra- and extra-cellular water exchanges.
Since potassium citrate is an alkaline salt, it can be used for effective medical purposes to reduce the pain and frequency of urination when caused by highly acidic urine. It can be used for this purpose as a non-irritant diuretic. It is also used as an alkalizing agent in the management of mild urinary tract infections such as cystitis.
A potassium level that is too low can lead to muscle weakness or cramps. Its intake helps maintain good muscle health, especially in athletes. It also allows a good distribution of glucose to the muscles.
This mineral influences blood pressure. A recent study identified all the analyzes relating to its consumption and blood pressure. This revealed an association between high potassium consumption and lower blood pressure. The kidney is the organ responsible for regulating the balance of sodium, chloride and potassium and many studies show that the kidney plays a major role in the regulation of blood pressure. On the other hand, for an effective effect on blood pressure, sodium intake must also be reduced.
What are the daily requirements?
The average daily 6-8 intake of this mineral from the diet is approximately 40-120 mmol. It is mainly the kidneys that regulate its balance. These filter about 800 mmol of potassium every day. The potassium blood level is called serum potassium. In the blood of an average-weight fasting adult, it should be between 3.5 and 4.5 mmol/L.
Where to find it?
It is found in different forms, in the plant, animal and mineral kingdom.
Potassium hydroxide (otherwise known as potash) is used in the manufacture of detergents; potassium chloride is used as a substitute for dietary salt, infused in the hospital to compensate for a deficiency. Potassium nitrate is otherwise called saltpeter and is used in gunpowder; potassium carbonate is used in the manufacture of glass and is the main constituent of certain fertilizers. There are also potassium bromide, potassium iodide, potassium phosphate, potassium sulphate, potassium bisulphite.
Potassium citrate, on the other hand, is a potassium salt associated with citric acid with the molecular formula K₃C₆H₅O₇. It is an odorless crystalline powder with a salty taste. It contains 38.28% elemental potassium. Potassium citrate is rapidly absorbed when administered orally and is excreted in the urine.
What are the effects of a deficiency or excess?
Hyperkalemia9 (too high blood potassium) is a serum potassium concentration > 5.5 mEq/L (> 5.5 mmol/L), generally resulting from a decrease in the elimination of it from the kidneys or an abnormal movement of potassium out of cells. Hyperkalemia may also occur with metabolic acidosis.
Too much of this mineral can lead to decreased kidney function, insulin deficiencies or adrenal insufficiency. An overload of it in the blood, linked to taking diuretics, requires close monitoring. The main risk is the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias and, in the most severe cases, fibrillation and cardiac arrest.
Always consult with your physician before consuming any substance.
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