According to Dr. Ajay Shah, CEO of Neuberg Ajay Shah Laboratories, India, potassium is an important nutrient that helps maintain proper electrical impulses in the heart muscle. Potassium deficiency, known as hypokalemia, can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems such as palpitations, heart failure, or even sudden cardiac arrest in severe cases.
Adequate levels of this mineral may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure and stroke. It may also help prevent vascular calcification, which is characterized by calcium buildup in the smooth muscle cells in the heart's arteries.
Signs of potassium deficiency
If your potassium levels are low, you may experience a variety of symptoms. These include:
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia).
- Palpitations (feeling of slow heartbeat or fluttering in the chest).
- Weakness or fatigue due to impaired heart muscle function.
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.
- In severe cases, chest pain or heart failure.
Dr. Ajay Shah says that potassium requirements can vary from person to person depending on factors such as overall health, activity levels, and medical conditions. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional or nutritionist can help determine your individual potassium needs.
Cardiovascular symptoms associated with potassium deficiency
If you have low potassium or hypokalemia, here are some heart problems and symptoms you may experience:
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Heart beat fast.
- Out of breath.
- Heart failure, even sudden cardiac arrest in severe cases.
How to restore potassium levels in the body
Here's how you can increase your potassium levels:
- Consume foods rich in potassium, such as bananas, potatoes, avocados and green leafy vegetables.
- Take potassium supplements if prescribed by your doctor.
- Treat underlying health problems or adjust medications that may cause potassium loss.
- Stay well hydrated to prevent dehydration, which can worsen potassium imbalance.
- Regularly monitor potassium levels, especially in people at risk of heart disease.
