Potassium is crucial for survival. It is critical to the heart muscle's ability to pump by enabling it to initiate impulses which stimulate contraction of the heart's muscle fibres. Potassium also helps control the function of every nerve in the body. It helps maintain water balance, acid-base balance, and is necessary for protein and carbohydrate metabolism.

Studies suggest that high potassium intake may lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. A few symptoms which might indicate possible potassium deficiency are acne, constipation, vomiting, abdominal distention, frequent urination with large volumes and constant fatigue. These are symptoms which should be discussed with your doctor.

If your nutritional score indicates a possible potassium deficiency you may be able to correct it with changes to your diet. Good food sources are potatoes, peas, peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, bananas, apricots, fresh leafy greens, cantaloupe, avocados, parsley, citrus fruits, crushed sunflower seeds, figs, peaches (especially dried), nuts, legumes and turkey. Include some of these foods at every meal.

A good multivitamin/mineral tablet should contain enough potassium to supplement your diet. Separate potassium supplements can irritate the stomach. Take them only if your doctor recommends it. Severe potassium deficiency can be quite dangerous, but can only be diagnosed through blood tests.