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THE BEAN:
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 What is potassium?
According to MedlinePlus, “Potassium is a mineral that your body needs to work properly. It is a type of electrolyte. It helps your nerves to function and muscles to contract. It helps your heartbeat stay regular. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells.” What does potassium affect?
Hypo- vs. Hyperkalemia Hypo= low Hyper= high -kalemia= the medical suffix for potassium Therefore, hypokalemia means low potassium in the blood and hyperkalemia means high potassium in the blood. Examples of High Potassium Foods Leafy Greens (spinach, collard greens, swiss chard, bok choy, beet greens, etc.) Beans Potatoes Broccoli Avocado Bananas Orange Coconut water Tomatoes Yogurt Chicken Salmon How Dr. Munjal Helps: Potassium levels in the body are handled predominantly by the kidneys. With additional testing, we can determine the cause of the electrolyte abnormalities and work to correct it. Munjal’s Musings: Everything has potassium in it. You can have one serving of high potassium food for two servings of a lower potassium food. You don’t need to cut these foods out completely, but enjoy them in moderation. Resources Medline: Potassium Harvard: The Nutrition Source- Potassium Comments are closed.
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