Potassium is one of the least discussed minerals even though its functions are important, ranging from regulating the heartbeat to assisting in the movement of nutrients into the human cells to the movement of waste products out of the cells. Potassium is primarily found in muscle cells, with the remainder found in your liver, skin, and brain. Because it acts as an electrolyte in the body, mums who take fitness classes are encouraged to take potassium supplements on a regular basis because they lose a lot during training.
If you have a potassium deficiency and are wondering what food to eat to increase your potassium naturally, you can eat more vegetables, fish, some legumes, and fruits. It’s critical that you get the recommended amount of potassium per day, which is around 1000 mg. If you’ve always been told that you should take potassium but aren’t sure why, this article will explain the benefits of using potassium for fitness.
- Helps In Muscle Contraction
If you’re an active person, then you understand how much your muscles matter, and it’s easy to believe that your definition of fitness depends on your muscles’ ability to contract. One of the benefits of using potassium for fitness is that it will provide you with more energy to engage in physical activities, which will help your muscles contract. When you exercise by lifting weights or running, potassium is like fuel for your muscles, making it possible for them to do the work that you put them through. Potassium also helps your muscles recover faster after a strenuous workout. If you want to improve your diet so it adds value to your fitness and health, then consider the benefits of avocado. Known as a rich source of potassium, avocados also have vitamin E to help minimise stretch marks.
- Controls Electrolyte Balance
Potassium helps keep a healthy nervous system as it acts as an electrolyte while functioning in the body. Electrolytes are charged particles in our bodies, and they’re needed by cells to function properly. They help control hydration levels, your body’s acid-base balance, nerve functions, and muscle contractions. Because one of the most important electrolytes is potassium, having too little or too much of it can lead to fatigue, heart palpitations, dizziness, and even death.
After having given birth and as currently on a fitness schedule, eating bananas and avocados will be enough to maintain healthy potassium levels to keep your body functioning well. This means if you already have a source of potassium, you don’t have to take potassium supplements anymore. Although important for your daily activities, your body’s potassium intake should be maintained at an optimum balance.
- Helps In The Breakdown Of Glycogen
Everyday life necessitates the consumption of energy to carry out any activity. Potassium is essential for fitness so the muscles and cells in the body can function accordingly. It also aids in the breakdown of glycogen in muscle cells. Glycogen is important in providing energy during a fitness workout because its disintegration causes your muscle cells to use up potassium. After it has been depleted, your body will require potassium restoration so that it can function normally again and you don’t suffer from weak bones. Moreover, the amount of glycogen in the human body may vary dramatically because of exercise, diet, and even stress, so potassium intake is necessary.
- Improves Brain Functionality
As stated earlier, your brain has an amount of potassium. It’s not by chance that it contains potassium, as it has the function of improving brain function. This entails assisting your brain’s memory function so that you’ll have an effective learning process. For new mums, you must consume potassium-rich food and fluids to keep you and your baby healthy and for your brain to function normally.
- Helps In Metabolism
Potassium helps in the conversion of fluids and food into energy. Your body requires this energy to perform various activities. If you are a sportsperson or are involved in a variety of exercises that require energy, you should consume food and fluids rich in potassium to keep your energy levels high.
Conclusion
Potassium is an essential nutrient in your body because it aids in its proper and efficient functioning. Your body’s fitness is comprised of the ability to function mentally and physically, which is why you would not want to jeopardise your ability to perform some daily tasks. If you’re a mum who have recently given birth, you should consider eating many fruits and vegetables, or taking supplements to keep normal potassium levels especially if you have are following fitness schedule.