Potassium

AlisonMCross
AlisonMCross Posts: 37 Member
edited September 19 in Food and Nutrition
What does potassium do for the body? and what is the recommended daily intake?

Replies

  • AlisonMCross
    AlisonMCross Posts: 37 Member
    What does potassium do for the body? and what is the recommended daily intake?
  • andtckrtoo
    andtckrtoo Posts: 27 Member
    I track Potassium because it makes a difference for me in how I perform (I do endurance events). According to My Fitness Pal, my need is 3500 mg, but I've heard it can be as high as 4200 mg - and it's tough to get.

    But it's so worth it. For me, it helps prevent those horrid middle of the night leg cramps and seems to aid in recovery. But according to the Vitamin and Nutrition Organization (www.vitamins-nutrition.org) it also helps regulate blood pressure and heart function. That research shows you can actually lower your blood pressure by adding more potassium to your diet.

    It's also helps prevent stroke and is critical to cardiovascular and nerve functioning.

    There are a bunch of other things it does as well - all good (helping migraines for example). It's tough to get enough in a day, but the benefits are worth it.
  • Skittles6617
    Skittles6617 Posts: 247 Member
    I heard a lack of potassium can cause leg cramps (charlie horses) I only had these when I was pregnant and I got TWO the other night. Thought I was going to scream and I couldn't because I was at a sleepover with 50 K-6 grade girls that were sleeping. I may need more of something (vitamin)
  • andtckrtoo
    andtckrtoo Posts: 27 Member
    Skittles - what seems to work for me is a combination of making sure I get enough potassium, calcium and magnesium. I take a calcium, magnesium and zinc supplement. I just got done with a tough 55 mile bike ride with lots of climbing, and I was cramp free. :happy:

    You may find that as you increase activity, your body needs different things.
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