Conditions that increase the risk of hypokalemia (see also Drug interactions 1): Severe hypokalemia may result in muscular paralysis or abnormal heart rhythms (cardiac arrhythmias) that can be fatal (1, 6). Chronic hypokalemia is associated with hypertension and kidney stone formation (see Disease Prevention and Disease Treatment). They include fatigue, muscle weakness and cramps, and intestinal paralysis, which may lead to bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain. The symptoms of hypokalemia are related to alterations in membrane potential and cellular metabolism (1). Hypokalemia is most commonly a result of excessive loss of potassium, e.g., from prolonged vomiting or diarrhea, use of some diuretics and other medications (see Drug interactions), some forms of kidney disease, or metabolic disturbances. ![]() DeficiencyĪn abnormally low plasma potassium concentration is referred to as hypokalemia. The presence of potassium is also required for the activity of pyruvate kinase, an important enzyme in carbohydrate metabolism (5). The activation of Na +/K +-ATPase requires the presence of sodium and potassium. Cofactor for enzymesĪ limited number of enzymes require the presence of potassium for their activity. Tight control of cell membrane potential is critical for nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and heart function (2-4). The large proportion of energy dedicated to maintaining sodium/potassium concentration gradients emphasizes the importance of this function in sustaining life. ![]() Their activity has been estimated to account for 20%-40% of the resting energy expenditure in a typical adult. These pumps use ATP (energy) to pump sodium out of the cell in exchange for potassium ( Figure 1). A cell's membrane potential is maintained by ion pumps in the cell membrane, especially the Na +/K +-ATPase pumps. The concentration differences between potassium and sodium across cell membranes create an electrochemical gradient known as the membrane potential. Potassium concentrations are about 30 times higher inside than outside cells, while sodium concentrations are more than 10 times lower inside than outside cells. Potassium (K +) is the principal positively charged ion ( cation) in the fluid inside of cells, while sodium (Na +) is the principal cation in the extracellular fluid. Function Maintenance of membrane potential ![]() Normal body function depends on tight regulation of potassium concentrations both inside and outside of cells (1). The term electrolyte refers to a substance that dissociates into ions (charged particles) in solution, making it capable of conducting electricity. Potassium is an essential dietary mineral and electrolyte. Concomitant use of potassium supplements with certain drugs can increase the risk of potassium toxicity. Safety concerns with consuming potassium are limited in healthy people because the kidneys adjust urinary potassium excretion to potassium intake. Good dietary sources of potassium include fruit and vegetables, some nuts and seeds, and dairy products. The AI for each age/life stage group was set based on the level of intake reported in apparently healthy populations. The adequate intake ( AI) for potassium is 2,600 mg/day for women and 3,400 mg/day for men. Evidence of a role for potassium intakes in promoting bone health remains weak. Results from observational studies reported higher dietary potassium intakes to be associated with lower risks of stroke and kidney stone formation. Increasing dietary potassium intake may help lower blood pressure in normotensive and hypertensive individuals. (More information)Ĭhronic hypertension damages the heart, blood vessels, and kidneys, thereby increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Hypokalemia is usually due to excessive loss of potassium as with prolonged vomiting or diarrhea, use of diuretics, or with kidney disease. Low potassium concentration in blood (hypokalemia) can result in muscular paralysis or abnormal heart rhythms and can be fatal. Normal body function depends on tight regulation of potassium concentrations both inside and outside of cells. ![]() Potassium is considered to be a "nutrient of public health concern" according to the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans since its underconsumption in the US population is associated with adverse health effects ( hypertension and cardiovascular disease). Healthcare Professional Continuing Education.Chlorophyll and Metallo-Chlorophyll Derivatives.
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