Potassium

The quantity of potassium is about 150 grams in the organism and can be found dissolved nearly exclusively within the cells in the cytoplasm. Together with sodium, its most important role is stimulus transmission, which it is an essential element of.

What is it for?

• Acid-base balance
• Nervous system stimulus transmission
• Muscle functioning
• Energy supply for cells

How much of it is required?
Potassium requirement, as nearly every foodstuff contains it, can only be estimated. As its average daily intake is 2-6 grams, its deficiency state does not occur.

What foodstuffs contain it?
Potassium can be found in all the foodstuffs in lower or higher amounts. Products of animal origin contain more sodium, while foodstuffs of vegetable origin contain more potassium. According to modern nutrition science recommendations, it is worth preferring plants with a better sodium-potassium ratio.

Deficiency states
Its deficiency state hardly emerges with our dietary habits. Mainly vomiting, diarrhoea can be found among the reasons. Heart functioning problems, muscle weakness emerge and kidney functioning may be impaired.

Toxicity
Potassium overdose is likely only in the case of an increased intake of potassium preparations. It means a daily potassium intake of 15-20 grams, when general poisoning symptoms arise.