Potassium is a mineral essential for normal body function. The body conserves more potassium than sodium. Potassium is present within cells but is not associated with stored fat. The concentration of potassium in the body is 2 g/kg.
At a concentration of 140 mmol/L, it is the most common cation in the intracellular fluid.
Potassium is localized mostly within the cells. Every muscle movement and every nerve impulse transmission relies on it.
Potassium is even necessary for carbohydrate and protein metabolism. Investigations suggest that potassium is an activator of enzymes.
It regulates the osmotic pressure within the cells, is involved in cell membrane transport and also in the activation of a number of glycolytic and respiratory enzymes.
Potassium balances both water and acid in the blood and body tissues.
Because the body is unable to produce potassium in quantities sufficient to meet its requirements, there must be satisfied by external sources, primarily the diet. The potassium intake in a normal diet is 2 – 5.9 g/day. The minimum daily requirement is estimated to be 782 mg.
Potassium deficiency is characterized by muscular weakness and weakness of skeletal muscle results in paralysis.
One of the chronic medical conditions that has consistently been linked with long term inadequate potassium intake is high blood pressure or hypertension.
Potassium in human body
