Potassium is one of the essential minerals that is necessary for our good health. A deficiency in this mineral could lead to weakness, fatigue, and lack of muscle coordination. There are many foods that help to maintain the required levels of this mineral in our body. The article below will list out some foods rich in potassium, especially for patients with diabetes.
Fruits and vegetables are the major sources of potassium. Also, it is commonly prescribed as a supplement for diabetic patients. It has been seen that patients, who consume ample amounts of this mineral have a normal sugar level. In fact, insulin is effectively utilized in their body, if proper potassium levels are maintained. Raw foods are more advantageous than supplements, as they help to increase the insulin production in the body. Healing and revitalizing the cells of the pancreas is also another important function carried out by this mineral.
Many a time, due to the deficiency of potassium in our body, a number of health problems are experienced. Also, when one suffers from a severe disease, he is more likely to develop a deficiency of potassium, which is known as hypokalemia. Low levels of this mineral also lead to many disorders or diseases. Below are some of the vital functions of potassium in our body.
Functions
- It is an essential mineral that helps to regulate the proper functioning of the heart, digestive system, and also assists in controlling the blood pressure levels.
- One of its primary functions is to maintain the acidity, basicity, and pH balance in our body.
- It is also important for the efficient working of the brain and other neurons.
- It plays a significant role in the proper functioning of the pancreas and kidney.
- It helps in maintaining a proper fluid balance and conducting nerve impulses.
- It also helps the lungs to remove carbon dioxide from the body.
Useful Chart for Diabetics
Here is a table that specifies the calories, carbs, and the potassium content present in some foods. This will help the diabetic patients to decide the amount of a particular food to be consumed daily.
| K-rich Foods | Serving Size | K Content | Calories | Carbs |
| Bananas | 1 cup | 594 mg | 134 | 34.26 g |
| Cooked beetroot | 1 cup | 519 mg | 90 | 12.96 g |
| Cooked Brussels sprouts | 1 cup | 504 mg | 65 | 12.90 g |
| Lima beans | 1 cup | 955 mg | 209 | 40.19 g |
| Baked potato | 1 potato | 1081 mg | 278 | 36.59 g |
| Prune juice | 1 cup | 707 mg | 180 | 44.67 g |
| Dried prunes | 8 prunes | 828 mg | 161 | 42.96 g |
| Raisins | 1 cup | 1089 mg | 493 | 122.71 g |
| Tomato products | 1 cup | 909 mg | 25 | 32.15 g |
| Plain yogurt | 8 ounces | 579 mg | 154 | 11.7 g |
| Cooked spinach | 1 cup | 839 mg | 42 | 6.75 g |
| Winter squash | 1 cup | 896 mg | 63 | 6.12 g |
| Orange juice | 1 cup | 496 mg | 100 | 25.56 g |
* K = potassium
Other Sources Rich in Potassium
| Plums |
Broccoli
|
Nectarines | Pears |
| Cauliflower | Almonds |
Molasses
|
Brazil nuts |
|
Carrot juice
|
Peanuts
|
Milk
|
Kiwi fruit
|
|
Avocados
|
Fish
|
Poultry
|
Grapefruit
|
|
Mushrooms
|
Peas
|
Watermelon
|
Strawberries
|
|
Dates
|
Apricots
|
Mango
|
Cantaloupe
|
|
Oranges
|
Papaya | Figs | Artichokes |
| Bell Pepper | Cabbage |
Eggplant
|
Plantain
|
|
Celery
|
Asparagus | Parsnips |
So, now you know that the most common sources of potassium are present in fruits and vegetables. Although, it plays a vital role in many body functions, sometimes, excess of this mineral gets stored in the body that could lead to problems, like low blood pressure, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and a poor immune system. Foods, such as french fries, pickles, white bread, jam, sweetened aerated drinks, deep-fried meats, and whole milk should be avoided by a diabetic patient. Ultimately, the choice is yours; make the best out of it to lead a good and healthy life.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by a medical professional on the subject.
