Potassium is also necessary for the transmission of nerve impulses and the contraction of your muscles. Because your blood volume increases dramatically during pregnancy, you’ll require somewhat more electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride, all working together) to maintain the proper chemical balance of the additional fluid in your body.

What is potassium and why do we need it?

Date of publication: July, 2019. A certain amount of potassium is required for the regular functioning of all cells. It is necessary for the regulation of the heartbeat, the normal operation of the muscles and nerves, as well as the synthesis of protein and the metabolization of carbohydrates.

How does potassium affect your body?

Because potassium is required for the proper functioning of all of the body’s cells and tissues, it is important to have enough of it. As a result, decreased potassium levels might result in low energy levels as well as exhaustion. Muscle cramps occur when the muscles contract without being able to regulate their contractions.

How much potassium does the body need to function?

In reality, potassium is required by the body for nearly all of its functions, including appropriate heart function, muscular contraction, and nerve transmission, among others. As recommended by the Institute of Medicine, 4,700 mg per day is sufficient to promote adequate muscular function, keep the heart pumping regularly, and maintain a healthy blood pressure.

Where does potassium come from in the body?

Eighty percent of the potassium in your body is located in your muscle cells, with the remaining twenty percent present in your liver, bone, and red blood cells (source). It is for this reason that intracellular testing is essential. Not only should you check your blood potassium levels, but you should also check the potassium levels in your cells.