Potassium
From ChildWiki.com
Potassium is important for the proper function of all parts of the human body. Like sodium, chloride, magnesium and calcium, this mineral is an electrolyte, meaning that it conducts electricity in the body. Potassium is necessary for proper heart function, and the mineral supports smooth muscle contraction, making it important for digestive and muscular function. Potassium has also been linked to healthy bone growth and development.
Children and adults typically meet the recommended allowances of potassium from a healthy diet including fruits and vegetables. Many foods contain potassium, including all meats, some fish, most fruits, vegetables, legumes and dairy products. Good natural sources of potassium include bananas, orange juice, grapefruit juice, cantaloupes, avocados, tomatoes, potatoes, lima beans, salmon, flounder, cod, chicken and other meats. Many cereals are also potassium-fortified.
Potassium can be found in multivitamins and supplements, but potassium supplements should not be given to children without a doctor’s approval.
The recommended daily potassium intakes are listed below.
Children:
- Infants, birth - 6 months: 500 mg
- Infants, 7 months - 12 months: 700 mg
- Children, 1 year: 1,000 mg
- Children, 2 - 5 years: 1,400 mg
- Children, 6 - 9 years: 1,600 mg
- Children, over 10 years: 2,000 mg
Adults:
- 2,000 mg (including pregnant and nursing women)
Excess potassium in the blood is called hyperkalemia; not enough is known as hypokalemia. Maintaining the correct balance of potassium in the body depends on sodium and magnesium content in the blood. Too much sodium can decrease potassium absorbtion. Medical conditions, such as diarrhea, vomiting, malnutrition and, malabsorption can also result in potassium deficiency.
