1. Muscle Cramps – I’ve already mentioned that one of the causes of muscle cramps is low potassium levels – low potassium levels often result in cramps in the arms and legs[3]. When your muscles do not have sufficient potassium, your cells that form the muscles cannot function efficiently, resulting in cramps.
Cramps can range from being fairly uncomfortable to debilitating. Involuntary muscle twitches are mini cramps or indications of muscle malfunction that can be an indication that you don’t have sufficient potassium. If you are experiencing cramps on a regular basis then you should make an appointment with your physician.
2. Heart palpitations – Heart palpitations could be a serious symptom of low potassium levels and if you are experiencing heart palpitations, then you should seek immediate medical assistance.
3. Frequent urination
4. Extreme thirst
5. General weakness and fatigue
6. Abdominal cramping – Other symptoms can also include abdominal cramping, discomfort, bloating and constipation.
7. A tingling sensation and numbness
8. feeling dizzy or fainting could be one of the more serious symptoms of low potassium levels. Once again, if you are experiencing these symptoms then you need to see your medical practitioner urgently.
9. Low blood pressure
10. Depression, hallucinations, confusion, and delirium can also be an indication of low potassium levels and you should seek help as soon as possible.
A simple routine blood test can confirm your potassium levels. If you are struggling with one or more of the above symptoms then it may be a good idea to seek medical advice to check your potassium levels.
Once a potassium deficiency has been diagnosed, your physician may run further tests to diagnose the underlying causes of your deficiency. There are various reasons for low potassium levels and it is important to identify the underlying reasons in order to assess what treatment or if supplementation may be necessary for you.
Foods that Boost your Potassium Levels
Supporting your body nutritionally by eating foods high in potassium is one of the most important ways to ensure your body always has the potassium needed to support health.
The best dietary sources of potassium include:[4]
Beet greens
Swiss chard
Spinach
Potatoes
Sweet potatoes
Lima, pinto and kidney beans
Lentils
Avocado
Other good sources include bok choi, beets, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cantaloupe, tomato, papaya, banana, squash and nuts, like almonds and Brazil nuts (which have other health benefits).
A cup of beet greens will provide you with as much as 37% of your daily potassium requirement and a cup of spinach contains nearly a quarter of your daily potassium needs.[5]
It is however important to note that cooking can destroy the potassium in these ingredients and they are best consumed raw if you are consuming them to boost your potassium levels.
Read these related articles:
1. Warning Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
2. Warning Signs of Iron Deficiency
3. Top Signs That You Have Magnesium Deficiency
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