potassium 4.7

What is the chief cation of intracellular fluid for maintenance of normal levels?

potassium

sources

primarily in fruits and veggies

it is a major part of many salt substitute and is not often

used in processed foods

do many adults meet their intake

no less than 10% meet recommendations

potassium is primarily absorbed where

in the small intestine

what are the two main mechanisms for absorption

active transport and passive diffusion.

once inside the enterocyte there are specific

potassium channels that allow the potassium to cross basolateral membrane and enter the blood

few key fxns of K

• cell resting membrane potential

• water balance

• cellular metabolism

cell resting membrane potential

maintaining the electrical potential between outside and inside the cell

water balance

role as a cation, helps keep water movement

cellular metabolism

• process by which cells convert nutrients into energy and other necessary molecules

k toxicity

no upper limit but can lead to hyperkalemia, resulting in cardiac issues and muscle weakness.

hyperkalemia

a condition characterized by elevated potassium levels in the bloodstream, renal failure

deficiency - hypokalemia

a condition marked by low levels of potassium in the bloodstream, which can cause muscle weakness and cramps.

blood pressure regulation

people who do not meet their potassoum needs and have high dietary sodium intake are more li

populations with high intake of ___ have a prevalence of lower blood pressure

if people in the US increased potassium intake alone could reduce

the number of adults with known hypertension by 17% and increase life expectancy by 5 years

Dash diet

emphasizes food rich in potassium and fiber

how does potassium do these things

Potassium helps regulate fluid balance and counteracts the effects of sodium, leading to reduced blood pressure. It also supports healthy cellular function and can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.