A Mineral That You Should Get to Know: Potassium
Author: Shannon Miller
Over the past couple of weeks, we have looked at different nutrients that should be included in our diet.
Every nutrient has unique benefits that keep us healthy.
Of course, just because we know all the good that can come from doing something doesn’t mean we’ll actually follow through with it. We have to challenge ourselves to make changes…with our diet or anything else. The best ways to make dietary changes is to be knowledgeable…knowledge is power! On that note, this week we’ll look at potassium and more importantly – what it can do for us and where we can find it.
Potassium serves many functions, including the following:*
- Helps muscles to contract
- Aids in the regulation of fluids and mineral balance
- Aids in the maintenance of normal blood pressure by diminishing the effects of sodium
Where can you find potassium?
Among other places (i.e. dairy foods, meat, poultry, fish), potassium can be found in many types of fruits and vegetables, including the following:*
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Eggplant
- Pumpkins
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Beans
TIP: Reap the benefits of potassium by challenging yourself to make it an ingredient in your diet!
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*Adapted from the American Dietetic Association website; http://www.eatright.org/