Potassium is a very important mineral for the proper function of all cells, tissues, and organs in the human body. It is also an electrolyte. It is a substance that conducts electricity in the body, along with other minerals.
When you sweat while working out, your perspiration releases potassium and sodium out of the body. You therefore need to replace the lost potassium by eating foods containing potassium after exercise. Again, I’m not a fan of supplements. The intake of potassium following exercise is significant because potassium controls water levels in your body.
A recent study recommended that you should take about 4.7g daily of potassium. If your workouts are intense for longer periods of time, you may want to increase your intake above this level. Athletes need more potassium because significant levels can be lost through muscle wasting and perspiration.
If you don’t replace potassium after your workouts you may experience adverse effects. Potential adverse effects related to low potassium in the blood include muscle cramping, weakness, and fatigue.
There are many foods that are high in potassium. The following is a list to help guide you to the foods you like:
Yogurt
Legumes
Mushrooms
Kale
Avocados
Salmon
Bananas
Cantaloupe
Tomatoes
Sweet potatoes
