Recommended Nutrient Intakes for Vitamin and Minerals

Potassium

Functions

Potassium is the body's major cation inside cells. Potassium plays an important role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance and cell integrity. During nerve transmission and muscle contraction, potassium and sodium move across the cell membrane to change places and then the cell quickly pumps them back into place. The control of potassium distribution in the body is vital because it affects many aspects of homeostasis, including a steady heartbeat.

Recommended Intakes

Table: Recommended Intakes for Potassium (mg/day)

Food Sources

Potassium is abundant in all living cells. The richest sources are fresh foods of all kinds. Fresh foods, especially, fruit contain more potassium than sodium.

People who eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may have intakes as high as 11g per day. Generally toxicity is not of concern when the source is food.

Deficiency

Dietary deficiency of potassium is unlikely, but is possible with a diet that is habitually low in fresh fruit and vegetables. Potassium is more likely to occur due to excessive losses. Conditions such as diabetic acidosis, dehydration, or prolonged vomiting or diarrhoea can create a potassium deficiency. Certain drugs, i.e. diuretics, steroids and strong laxatives can also cause potassium deficiency.

Symptoms of potassium deficiency include muscle weakness, paralysis and confusion.

Toxicity