Potassium in Medicine
Potassium is an essential mineral. 98 percent of it is found inside the cell, and only two percent is found outside. Due to its electrical charge, potassium ensures that the so-called resting potential between the cell's interior and exterior is maintained.
Potassium is one of the most important positively charged ions (cations) in the body. This mineral plays a key role in signal transmission between cells and maintains electrical voltage. Our body also uses potassium, among other things, to regulate its acidity (pH). Potassium also activates various enzymes, for example the protein synthesis.
Potassium is essential for the normal function of cells, nerves, and muscles. The body must maintain blood potassium levels within strict limits. Too high (hyperkalemia) or too low (hypokalemia) potassium levels in the blood can have serious consequences, such as irregular heart rhythms or even cardiac arrest.
Potassium is also involved in regulating blood pressure. The World Health Organization recommends increased potassium intake for patients with high blood pressure (hypertension), as it can lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Potassium has also been proven to reduce the risk of stroke.
The recommended daily amount of potassium in the diet is about 3,500 mg. However to balance potassium levels, the body adjusts the amount of potassium consumed to the amount excreted. In general, adults should consume at least two grams of potassium per day. However, the individual daily requirement depends on age and health status. For example, a higher intake may be beneficial for patients with high blood pressure.
Potassium is absorbed through food and electrolyte drinks (containing potassium) and is primarily excreted in the urine. Some potassium is also lost through the digestive tract and sweat. Healthy kidneys can adjust the excretion of potassium to compensate for dietary fluctuations.
Some medications and certain medical conditions affect the exchange of potassium between cells and their environment, which significantly affects potassium levels in the blood.
Diagnosis
Even a slight deficiency can have far-reaching consequences such as cardiac arrhythmias, therefore potassium levels are routinely measured in blood test.
A blood tests is especially important when symptoms occur that indicate a possible potassium deficiency or excess. Symptoms such as muscle weakness, constipation, and heart palpitations can indicate excessive potassium loss. Excessive potassium intake can lead to discomfort, especially in the mouth, muscle twitching, and paralysis, and in the worst case, cardiac arrhythmias.
If a blood test confirmed a potassium deficiency (hypokalemia), an additional urine test will provide information about how the body loses potassium, e.g. via the kidneys or intestines.
At this time, there is no scientific or medical evidence that hair or nail testing reflects the body’s potassium status.