Some enzymes also need potassium to function properly affecting carbohydrate metabolism. Foods that are rich in potassium are bananas, spinach, tomatoes, radish, granadilla, papaya, red pepper, and fruits like peaches and apricots, as well as red wine. If you are deficient in potassium you could end up developing hypokalemia. Some of the causes of this disease are excessive vomiting, the use of diuretics, alcoholism, anorexia and bulimia, magnesium depletion, and overuse of laxatives. Symptoms of hypokalemia include, muscle weakness, fatigue, cramps, constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Other symptoms associated with lack of potassium in general are depression, irritability, confusion, and disorientation. The correct amount of potassium has been known to decrease the risk of having a stroke, especially if you suffer from hypertension. It has also been known to regulate the heart rate thus preventing heart failure heart disease. Another helpful affect of this mineral is that it helps prevent kidney stones, which is caused by too much calcium being lost through the urine. Potassium helps to even out the acidic/alkaline ratio in the body, also helping with osteoporosis.

A balanced diet with regular sized helpings of diary, lean meat, whole grains, carbohydrates, fats, and fruit and vegetables will ensure that you get potassium and all the other essential vitamins and minerals that you need. Many ailments like headaches, skin conditions, muscles pains and everyday aches and pains can be eliminated by concentrating on eating a balanced diet to get every mineral your body needs.