Potassium ions are essential for the human body and are also present in
plants. Our body contains approximately 2.6 g of potassium per kg of our
body weight, and performs many biological functions including:
*Potassium is an obligatory component of all cells hence, the greater
the number of cells the more is the increase in potassium. Its levels
are controlled by the kidneys. Primarily, potassium functions to
regulate water and mineral balance throughout the body.
*Potassium is required for the maintenance of osmotic pressure and fluid balance within the cells.
*Potassium is required for enzymatic reactions which take place within
the cell. Some potassium is bound to phosphate in the process of
formation of glucose to glycogen. It is required for insulin
secretion, creatine phosphorylation, carbohydrate metabolism and
protein synthesis. The ratio of intracellular to extracellular potassium
is the major determinant of muscular and neuronal excitability and
if this balance is disturbed, various pathological states can develop.
*The small concentration of potassium in the ECF, it is required to
transmit nerve impulse to muscle fibers, along other ions. Potassium
ions are crucial for the functioning of neurons, by influencing the
osmotic balance between cells and the interstitial fluid.
Include in a diet plan, lean meats such as salmon and other fish,
chicken, and turkey—each provide over 400 milligrams of potassium for
every 3 ounce portion.
What are the functions of potassium in human body?
