It is often said that in summer it is important to replenish potassium because, by sweating, we lose a lot of it. But how do we realize that our body lacks this mineral salt? To reveal the deficiency would be not only the most common symptoms, but also an often ignored signal.
Symptoms of potassium deficiency
The scientific term for low blood potassium levels is hypokalemia. As experts explain, this is a problem that is not very common. Usually, in fact, you get enough potassium through your diet and you don’t need supplements. But some health problems could cause hypokalaemia: for example, vomiting, diarrhea or excessive use of laxatives. Certain medications may also cause potassium deficiency. These are in particular diuretics, insulin, alburetol and terbutaline. Finally, it can happen that potassium levels are low due to the lack of another mineral, namely magnesium.
The problem is that potassium deficiency is often overlooked. In fact, if this is mild, it is likely that it is not accompanied by any symptoms. In other cases we may warn:
- muscle weakness;
- cramps;
- spasms;
- altered heart rhythm;
- in severe cases, even paralysis, the need to drink a lot and go to the toilet frequently.
But in addition to these symptoms there is also an unsuspected one.
Not only for weakness and cramps, potassium deficiency could also be recognized by this symptom that many ignore
Everyone has already had a grumbling stomach. These noises, which are actually called borborygmas, are generally harmless: the fault may be hunger, poor digestion or simply the movement of gas in the stomach and intestines. But, if the noise becomes very frequent or intense, it is time to seek medical attention, as borborygmas could be a symptom of gastrointestinal disease. Finally, changes in electrolyte levels are among the causes of gurgling in the belly. Therefore, not only for weakness and cramps, the lack of a fundamental nutrient, namely potassium, could also be recognized thanks to the noises of the stomach and intestines.
Fortunately, hypokalaemia can be resolved easily. Just eat the foods rich in this nutrient, for example:
- beans;
- potatoes;
- pesce;
- banana;
- vegetables with dark green leaves.
But in any case, if you suspect a potassium deficiency, it is good to talk to your doctor. So you can take the necessary tests to confirm if there is a problem.
Deepening
The perfect side dish in summer to fight the heat and replenish potassium