Nickel

Nickel is a naturally occurring mineral found in healthy foods such as nuts, grains, peas, and beans. We have known since the 90s that the human body will also absorb and metabolize nickel if it is taken as an oral supplement [1]. Therefore, nickel is also used as a dietary supplement in liquid mineral tinctures. Nickel is usually ingested in this form to improve iron absorption and treat anemia, and to strengthen bones and help prevent osteoporosis.

Nickel Research

Nickel is understood to be a vital component in a number of important human biological processes, but its exact role in those processes still remains a mystery . Fortunately, scientific research of this substance has been ongoing, particularly as nickel continues to gain traction as a dietary supplement.

Weight Loss

In particular, nickel is finding new life in contemporary weight loss applications. In 2004, researchers tested on a very basic, biochemical level, the value of nickel as a health-fortifying agent and weight loss supplement. They introduced varying levels of nickel to rabbits and broilers (chickens raised specifically for meat) and compared those animals to a control group that had no nickel. Interestingly, at 50 mg dosages of nickel, the chickens and rabbits were stronger and gained weight at a slightly increased rate. However, as researches proceeded to ramp the dosage up to a comparatively massive 500 mg, the nickel harmed the livers of the animals while impairing digestion and weight gain.This supports the idea that there is a “sweet spot” with nickel intake. Though it can improve absorption and even lead to weight loss, too much can be harmful.

In 2011, two Polish researches theorized that there was a relationship between 16 different weight loss products on the market, and the potential nickel content in those products. After heating and introducing the weight loss products to acid to simulate human digestion, they indeed identified high levels of nickel in the products .

Nickel in Cigarette Smoke

A 2004 study found that, in addition to the growing laundry list of far more dangerous, highly carcinogenic substances in cigarettes, smokers also expose themselves to large doses of extra nickel by smoking. Significantly higher, carcinogenic levels of nickel were found in the urine of smokers over non-smokers [5]. This again speaks to the potential challenge with nickel quantities: Though the positive value of nickel in our diets is undisputed, like with most things, too much nickel may be harmful to us.

Nickel is one of the oldest and most prolific minerals on our planet. It is surprising, then, that we are just scratching the surface when it comes to its potential benefits to human health. From the traditional uses of treating and preventing anemia and osteoporosis, to experimental new weight loss applications, the uses for nickel seem ever-growing. Provided caution is used in meting out dosages, nickel can indeed make us happier, healthier people.

Cobalt

The importance of cobalt in the maintenance of your health is often overlooked. With all the information that surrounds the use of antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals, ignoring this nutrient may hamper your health.

Most of us don’t know or understand the role of cobalt in our bodies. We did a little digging to highlight the importance of the nutrient in your daily diet.

1. Vitamin B12
The most important role of cobalt stands in the production of vitamin B12, also known as ‘Cobalamin’. The human body is unable to produce vitamin B12 on its own and hence needs it from external sources. So, if you’re thinking of popping cobalt supplements without having enough vitamin B12 in your body, you are not doing yourself any good.

2. Nervous Health
Cobalt is also known to aid in the repair of myelin sheaths (the protecting layer covering the nerve cells). This ensures the protection of the nerve cells against the damage of free radicals.

3. Blood Health
Scientists have suggested that cobalt may play a vital role in the absorption of iron in the body, thereby making it available for the formation of hemoglobin and improving blood health.

Cobalt is mostly found in animal proteins and can be obtained by having organ meats, oysters, clams, poultry and milk. However, one should note that excessive consumption of cobalt can lead to an increase in blood volume, which may result in anemia due to the overproduction of red blood cells. It is best to talk to your doctor who can guide you on your requirement for cobalt.

Iron

The health benefits of iron mainly include carrying life-giving oxygen to human blood cells. About two-thirds of the bodily iron is found in hemoglobin. Other health benefits of iron are iron deficiency anemia, anemia of chronic disease, cough, anemia in pregnancy, predialysis anemia and many more.

The health benefits of iron correspond to proper growth of human body and maintaining robust health. It is an essential protein component for metabolism. Body needs iron to produce red blood cells. The human body is capable of preserving 15 % of iron for future use, especially in the case of inadequate diet intake.

Deficiency Symptoms:

Iron deficiency may often cause severe fatigue, body weakness & related health ailments. People with lack of iron cannot perform normal functions to their best abilities. Women and children need more iron than the male counterparts. A person with low iron level is likely to be anemic. Severe iron deficiency may cause progressive skin ailments that may cause brittleness of nails and extra smoothness in tongue area.

Important Sources:

Iron is found in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods i.e. heme or non-heme iron. Legumes, lentils, soy beans, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, cereals, bread, spinach, turnip, sprouts, broccoli and dry fruits also have good iron content. You can also get iron tablets and supplements. Anemic people are often advised by doctors to take supplementary iron tablets or tonic. Food items containing good level of vitamin C may also aid in absorption of iron by the body. For example, eating a burger with tomato slices in it could boost the absorption of non-heme type iron contents from the burger bread. Citrus fruits and juices like orange juice may also help in iron absorption.

Benefits:

Iron, when consumed in balanced amount in the human diet, is efficient in providing a number of benefits as given below:

  1. Hemoglobin formation:

    Formation of hemoglobin happens to be the chief function of this mineral. Not only that, being a part of hemoglobin, it gives the dark red shade to the blood and also aids in transporting oxygen to the body cells.

  2. Muscle function:

    Iron is a vital element for muscle health. It is present in the muscle tissues and helps in supply of oxygen required for contraction of muscles.

  3. Brain function:

    Development of brain is also one of the many benefits of iron. Since oxygen supply to blood is aided by iron and brain uses approximately 20% of the blood oxygen, iron is directly related to brain health and its functions.

  4. Restless leg syndrome:

    Iron deficiency is one of the causes of the restless leg syndrome. Most research on this syndrome has concentrated on iron. Lower level of iron in the blood is a major cause and hence proper intake of iron supplements in required levels as per doctor’s consultation can cure this problem.

  5. Regulation of body temperature:

    Iron is a facilitator for regulating body temperature. An interesting fact is that it has the ability to regulate as per the absorption capacity of the body.

  6. Oxygen carrier:

    One of the most important health benefits of iron is that it acts as a carrier of oxygen and thus participates in transferring oxygen from one body cell to other. This is an important function of iron, as oxygen is required by each and every body part to perform routine functions.

  7. Neurotransmitters synthesis:

    Iron actively takes part in the synthesis of a number of essential neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, along with serotonin. These chemicals play major role in different activities involving neurons and human brain.

  8. Iron deficiency anemia:

    Iron is helpful in the treatment of severe disorder called iron deficiency anemia, which results due to lack of adequate amount of iron in human body.

  9. Chronic diseases:

    The mineral called iron helps in the treatment of chronic disorders like renal failure anemia.

  10. Anemia in women:

    Iron may also exhibit its health benefits in curing anemia resulting in women during pregnancy or menstruation.

  11. Predialysis anemia:

    It is recommended by health experts that iron qualifies to treat another form of anemia called predialysis anemia. However, one must consult a medical expert to get treatment for this problem.

  12. Fatigue:

    Health benefits of iron also include eradication of different causes of fatigue, which may occur in men as well as women. Iron deficiency is a natural cause of fatigue since it is an important component of hemoglobin. So, the inclusion of iron in your diet keeps you fit and healthy.

  13. Immune system:

    Iron also plays a key role in providing strength to the immune system of human body. Thus, the body is made proficient enough to fight against a number of diseases and infections.

  14. Energy metabolism:

    Iron is an important spectator of energy metabolism in human body by which, the energy is extracted from the food consumed and distributed to different body parts.

  15. Enzyme systems:

    Iron happens to be the most important constituent of different enzyme systems and other important constituents like myoglobin, the cytochromes and catalase.

  16. Insomnia:

    Iron is also useful in treating insomnia in human body and also improves the sleeping benefits in the life of an individual.

   17.Concentration:

Iron, when consumed in sufficient amount in the diet, builds concentration amongst the students and professional people to carry out their work efficiently.

Manganese

The health benefits of manganese lead to overall wellness in a variety of ways. Here is a list of the most significant benefits that have been researched:

Healthy Bones: Manganese is essential for proper and normal growth of human bone structure. It is a very effective mineral in aiding in the increase of  the mineral density of spinal bone. This is especially true and useful for post-menopausal women. Many women suffer from manganese deficiency after they go through menopause, so increasing the amount of trace minerals that women consume is an important factor in preventing fractures. Although research has yet to consistently prove that manganese can prevent osteoporosis, it is believed to be one of the contributing factors that slow down the progress of that debilitating disease.
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Free Radicals: Due to the antioxidant properties of manganese, the health benefits of manganese include a special function of monitoring the activity of free radicals in human body. These free radicals are capable of damaging human cells and causing cancer and other devastating diseases, so adding manganese supplements or food rich in this mineral is a very good choice, particularly if you have other risk factors for various diseases.

Sugar level: Manganese has also exhibited efficiency in controlling the level of sugar in human blood. This may further prevent the occurrence of certain diseases like diabetes. To control the level of sugar in the blood, manganese normalizes insulin synthesis and secretion, and the unpredictable drops in blood sugar can be better regulated, providing a more normal and functional life for diabetics.

Epilepsy: Low levels of manganese can act as a trigger for epileptic seizures. Manganese supplements can aid in controlling the possibility of any minor or major epileptic seizure. The exact mechanism for this is not fully understood, but manganese has been shown to act as a vasodilator in various studies, and there are some researchers who believe that this is the key to the anti-epileptic quality.

Metabolism: Regulation of the body’s metabolism is one of the vital functions of manganese. Manganese-activated enzymes help in the metabolism of cholesterol, amino acids, and carbohydrates. It is also important for the metabolism of Vitamins like Vitamin E and Vitamin B-1. Furthermore, it helps the liver properly function and run smoothly, as well as being an essential part of the metabolism of glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the body, and a key part of DNA polymerase.

Inflammation and Sprains: Manganese is a widely known remedy for sprains as well as inflammation as it helps in increasing the level of superoxide dismutase. This increased level is due to the antioxidant properties of the mineral. Superoxide dismutase, also known as SOD, is normally found in very low levels in patients with arthritis. SOD has anti-inflammatory qualities which arthritis sufferers desperately need, so adding manganese back into the body to increase synthesis and function of SOD has been connected with a decrease in symptoms of this condition, according to various studies.

Preventing Osteoporosis: Manganese supplements are connected to the relief of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis syndrome because it is an essential mineral that has been proven to add to bone density and overall mineral density. However, as an individual element in the creation and repair of bones, studies are still somewhat lacking. In human testing, at least, most bone health research is done with a complete panel of trace minerals, not just manganese. Further studies have to be done on the specific roles and mechanisms of manganese on the body.

Alleviating PMS syndrome: It is an unfortunate but unavoidable fact that many women suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In these monthly situations, manganese helps to alleviate the mood swings, headaches, depression and irritability to a considerable extent. Studies have shown a connection between low levels of various trace minerals, including manganese, in women who suffered from particularly severe PMS symptoms, so supplementation is recommended. That being said, the impact of manganese on the hormonal function of the body can be quite noticeable, so speak with a doctor before using manganese supplementation to help with PMS, since that is also heavily connected to hormones.

Thyroid Health: Manganese is an important co-factor for many different enzymes, and it is an essential component of thyroxine, arguably the most important hormone in the thyroid gland. Proper functioning of the thyroid gland and its hormonal synthesis benefits a wide variety of health issues in the body, including weight loss, appetite, metabolism, and organ system efficiency.

Aids in vitamin absorption:Manganese helps absorb vital vitamins like vitamin B and E and minerals like magnesium. This is due to the role of manganese in the enzymatic reactions that are required to absorb and utilize vitamins taken in from food. Manganese is one of the most versatile co-factors for enzymatic reactions, and if there is a risk of having a deficiency in certain vitamins, then be sure to increase levels of manganese, as long as they are still within safe and non-toxic levels.

Brain and nervous system:Manganese is essential for the healthy functioning of the brain and it is also used to treat specific nervous disorders. This is most likely due to the superoxide dismutase, which scavenges free radicals throughout the body, including the neural pathways. Oxidation byproducts like free radicals are everywhere in the body, and the brain can be negatively affected just as easily as other parts of the body, therefore powerful antioxidants like SOD are required. Aside from its antioxidant role, manganese can also bind with neurotransmitters and stimulate faster or more efficient transmission of electrical impulses throughout the body, in effect, speeding up cognitive function!

Glucose Metabolism: Manganese aids in regulating glucose metabolism in the human body. This is one of the most important health benefits of manganese to provide proper resources to different body parts, which increases energy and functional efficiency. Also, when glucose is properly absorbed and utilized by organ systems and muscles, there is less of a chance of excess buildup, which is dangerous for patients with diabetics. Proper management of diabetes is definitely aided by proper manganese levels in the body.

Digestive tract: Manganese is a mineral, which is helpful in maintaining the functioning of the digestive track. This further improves the absorption of fat in the process of digestion, and also reduces issues like constipation and bowel discomfort. Manganese is also important in terms of efficient food utilization and the transformation into usable energy.

A Few Words of Warning: Manganese is one of only three toxic trace minerals in the human body, meaning that we cannot have too little or too much. Be sure to never overdo on manganese supplementation, because it can lead to a wide array of very dangerous conditions and diseases, some of which are fatal. Manganese overdose can lead to similar symptoms to Parkinson’s disease, or to the disease itself. Also, for those with liver conditions, be careful not to take in too much manganese, since the liver will have trouble getting rid of it, which can lead to psychosis, mental disorders, and tremors/spasms. Finally, if you have anemia, your body tries to absorb as much manganese as possible, which can be dangerous, so monitor your intake closely!

Chromium

Chromium is a mineral our bodies use in small amounts for normal body functions, such as digesting food. Chromium exists in many natural foods including brewer’s yeast, meats, potatoes (especially the skins), cheeses, molasses, spices, whole-grain breads and cereals, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Drinking hard tap water supplies chromium to the body, and cooking in stainless-steel cookware increases the chromium content in foods.

You can buy chromium supplements alone in tablets or capsules or as part of a multivitamin. But because the human body needs very little chromium, most people get enough in their regular diet and do not require dietary supplements. Those at risk for chromium deficiency include people with diabetes and the elderly.

What is chromium used for?

Chromium helps to move blood sugar (glucose) from the bloodstream into the cells to be used as energy and to turn fats, carbohydrates, and proteins into energy.

  • Chromium may help some people with type 2 diabetes. It may help them control their blood sugar and may play a role in the management of type 2 diabetes. But more studies are needed to know how well it really works.
  • Chromium supplements are promoted as being helpful in building muscle and burning fat and in helping the body use carbohydrates. But this has not been proved.
  • Chromium may affect the eyes. There is a link between low chromium levels and increased risk of glaucoma.
  • Chromium slows the loss of calcium, so it may help prevent bone loss in women during menopause.

Is chromium safe?

The chromium found in foods will not hurt you. But taking excessive chromium supplements can lead to stomach problems and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Too much chromium from supplements can also damage the liver, kidneys, and nerves, and it may cause irregular heart rhythm. But side effects from taking chromium supplements are rare.

Antacids (including calcium carbonate) interfere with the absorption of chromium.

Being exposed to high levels of chromium on the job (such as in metallurgy and electroplating) has been linked not only to kidney damage but also to lung and other cancers as well as skin conditions such as eczema and other inflammations of the skin.

Vanadium

Although research on the health effects of vanadium is limited and dated, there’s some evidence that vanadium may offer certain health benefits. Here’s a look at several key study findings:

1) Diabetes

Preliminary research suggests that vanadate (a vanadium compound) may help improve the body’s metabolism of blood sugar (also known as “glucose”). Additionally, some preliminary studies indicate that vanadate and other vanadium compounds may promote the movement of glucose into cells (where glucose is broken down and used for energy).

So far, very few clinical trials have tested the use of vanadium in treatment of diabetes. However, one of the few human-based studies found that vanadyl sulfate (a form of vanadium) had some beneficial effects on patients with type 2 diabetes.

Published in the journal Metabolism in 2000, the study involved 16 diabetes patients. After six weeks of treatment with vanadyl sulfate, some patients showed improvements in glucose metabolism and cholesterol levels.

Still, vanadyl sulfate did not appear to fight insulin resistance or help regulate blood sugar levels.

2) Cancer

Vanadium shows promise for cancer treatment, according to a 2002 report published in Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology. For instance, laboratory studies on human cells demonstrate that vanadium may help promote apoptosis (a type of programmed cell death involved in stopping the spread of cancer cells). There’s also some evidence that vanadium may help suppress the growth of cancerous tumors, according to the report.

Since there is currently a lack of clinical trials on vanadium’s effectiveness against cancer, it’s too soon to recommend vanadium for cancer treatment (or cancer prevention).

3) Bone Health

Tests on animals and human cells indicate that vanadium compounds may help promote osteogenesis (a process in which bone-forming cells lay down new bone material), according to a 2006 report published in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology. However, clinical data on the use of vanadium for prevention or treatment of bone disorders are currently lacking.

Caveats

Little is known about the safety of taking vanadium regularly. However, there’s some evidence that vanadium may be harmful to people with certain health conditions (including disorders of the blood, respiratory system, and immune system).

In addition, some research suggests that excessive consumption of vanadium may cause damage to the liver and/or kidneys.

Given these safety concerns, it’s important to seek medical advice if you’re considering the use of vanadium.

Use of vanadium may trigger several side effects, including stomach pain,diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

It’s important to keep in mind that supplements haven’t been tested for safety and dietary supplements are largely unregulated. In some cases, the product may deliver doses that differ from the specified amount for each herb. In other cases, the product may be contaminated with other substances such as metals. Also, the safety of supplements in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions or who are taking medications has not been established.

Food Sources and Supplements

Dill seeds and black pepper are the two top food sources of vanadium. Vanadium can also be found in whole grains, seafood, meats, and dairy products.

Titanium

In the field of alternative medicine, medical alert jewelry is not a new concept. The main purpose of these medical alert devices is to alert the user of a possible medical problem. The advantages of these devices can increase manifold, if they are made from titanium. Magnetic stainless titanium bracelets are a new invention in the field of alternative medicine. Titanium bracelets benefits are myriad, which make them a favorite for medical alert devices. Here is how to benefit from titanium bracelets

Increased Oxygen Supply

Titanium has a property to attract and capture oxygen and transfer it to the body. Oxygen is known to relieve pain and inflammation of the body. Thus, wearing titanium bracelets near the inflamed areas helps reduce inflammation, by directing oxygen supply to that area. This is the reason, why arthritis patients with inflamed wrists benefit the most from titanium bracelets. Titanium bracelets for sports persons, especially tennis players are also useful for the same reason. Read more on alternative medicines for arthritis.

Electric Neutralization

Magnetic stainless titanium bracelets are known to possess positive charge. In alternative medicine, pain is considered to have a negative charge. Thus, according to the fundamentals of science, positive charge and negative charge nullify each other. Thus, titanium bracelets relieve pain by neutralizing the electric field.

Body Compatibility

Titanium is a metal which shows highest compatibility with the human body. This is the reason why most medical devices, that are to be fitted inside the body are made of titanium. The possibility of rejection of the device by the body is minimum in case of titanium. This metal is also least likely to induce allergies or infections. Hence, it is also used for body piercing. Thus, titanium bracelets can be worn for years without bothering about any skin rashes or infections.

Durability

The high durability of titanium makes it less vulnerable to any kind of physical damage. It can withstand very high temperatures and can also tolerate salt water. It does not get affected due to rough handling or any kind of abuse. It is also less corrosive as compared to iron based alloys. Moreover, it does not bend easily, thus it can be worn without any fear of corrosion or physical damage.

Pain Killer

Titanium is considered as a cure for carpal tunnel syndrome, since it acts as a pain killer. It has two working mechanisms, by which it relieves pain. First is, it stimulates the nerves in the affected region to promote healing. The second theory is that, the magnetic properties of titanium attract the blood cells, which are rich in iron, towards the affected body part. Thus, the increased blood flow results in better healing and quick relief from pain.

Scandium

Scandium is one of the rare chemicals, that can be found in houses in equipment such as colour televisions, fluorescent lamps, energy-saving lamps and glasses. The use of scandium is still growing, due to the fact that it is suited to produce catalysers and to polish glass.
The main application by volume is in aluminium-scandium alloys for the aerospace industry and for sports equipment (bikes, baseball bats, etc.) which rely on high performance materials. It has been shown to reduce solidification cracking during the welding of high strength aluminium alloys.

Scandium in the environment

Scandium can rarely be found in nature, as it occurs in very small amounts. Scandium is usually found only in two different kinds of ores. Thortveitite is the primary source of scandium with uranium mill tailings by-products also being an important source. World production amount to only 50 kg per year. There is no estimate of how much is potentially available.
Scandium is only the 50th most abundant element on hearth, it is distributed widely, occurring in trace quantities in over 800 minerals. The blue color of the aquamarine variety of beryl is thought to be caused by scandium.
Only about 3% of plants that were analysed for scandium shows its presence, and even those amounts were tiny, with vegetable having only 5 ppb although grass has 70 ppb.

Health effects of scandium

Scandium has no biological role. Only trace amounts reach the food chain, so the average person’s daily intake is less than 0.1 microgram.

Scadium is not toxic, although there have been suggestions that some of its compounds might be cancerogenic.

Scandium is mostly dangerous in the working environment, due to the fact that damps and gasses can be inhaled with air. This can cause lung embolisms, especially during long-term exposure. Scandium can be a threat to the liver when it accumulates in the human body.


Effects of scandium on the environment

Scandium is dumped in the environment in many different places, mainly by petrol-producing industries. It can also enter the environment when household equipment is thrown away. Scandium will gradually accumulate in soils and water soils and this will eventually lead to increasing concentrations in humans, animals and soil particles.
With water animals scandium causes damage to cell membranes, which has several negative influences on reproduction and on the functions of the nervous system.

Calcium

The mineral calcium is well-known for its key role in bone health. Calcium also helps maintainheart rhythm, muscle function, and more. Because of its health benefits, calcium is one of the best-selling supplements in the U.S.

Why do people take calcium?

Calcium is crucial in growing new bone and maintaining bone strength. Calcium supplementsare standard for treating and preventing osteoporosis — weak and easily broken bones — and its precursor, osteopenia.

Calcium is used for many other conditions. It’s an ingredient in many antacids. Doctors also use calcium to control high levels of magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium in the blood. There’s good evidence that calcium can help prevent or control high blood pressure. It also may reduce PMS symptoms as well as play a role in preventing certain cancers. Calcium with vitamin D, for instance, may help protect against breast cancer in premenopausal women. The data, though, are still inconclusive as to whether it might do the same for postmenopausal women. Calcium also has been looked at for other uses, for example, aidingweight loss. But so far, these studies have been inconclusive.

The people at highest risk of a calcium deficiency are postmenopausal women. Since dairy products are one of the most common sources of calcium, people who are lactose intolerantor vegan are also at increased risk of calcium deficiency.

How much calcium should you take?

The Institute of Medicine has set an adequate intake (AI) for calcium. Getting this amount from diet, with or without supplements, may be enough to keep your bones healthy. Doctors may recommend higher doses.

Category
Calcium: Adequate Intake (AI)
0-6 months 210 mg/day
7-12 months 270 mg/day
1-3 years 700 mg/day
4-8 years 1,000 mg/day
9-18 years 1,300 mg/day
19-50 years 1,000 mg/day
51 years and up 1,200 mg/day (women) 1,000 mg/day (men)

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding do not need extra calcium beyond the recommendations above.

The tolerable upper intake levels (UL) of a supplement are the highest amount that most people can take safely. For calcium, it’s 2,500 mg/day for adults and children over 1 year.

In general, it’s best to take calcium supplements with food. For better absorption, don’t take more than 500 milligrams at one time. Split up larger doses over the course of the day. For the body to make use of calcium properly, you also need to get enough vitamin D and magnesium.

Potassium

1. Better Brain Function

potassium helps brain functionYour brain does its best work when your potassium level is maintained. Go a long time without enough potassium and your brain could end up paying the price. It’s best to avoid the situation altogether by ensuring you’re getting adequate potassium.

In order to get the best and most noticeable results, try to get the recommended amount of potassium each day, which is 3.5 grams. It may involve cutting out processed food and stressing fresh fruits and vegetables, but it’s worth the effort and will pay dividends in the form of better brain health.

How Potassium Helps: Potassium helps send more oxygen to your brain, which lets it do its job better. When you don’t get enough you’re limiting the amount of oxygen that makes it to your brain and you’ll experience the side effects, which may be subtle at first but will worsen until the problem is corrected.

2. Better Muscle Function

Your muscles do a lot to help you get through your day, and if they’re not firing on all cylinders it’s going to be hard to get through your daily activities without feeling fatigued. Whether you’re trying to build lean muscle mass or just trying to keep your muscles healthy for life, potassium plays a role.

muscle function

One symptom of low metabolism is muscle weakness and damage, so in order to keep your muscle as healthy as possible, look to foods that are high in potassium, and stock up on them each time you’re at the grocery store. These include bananas of course, as well as avocados, raisins, and dried apricots.

How Potassium Helps: Potassium helps keeps your muscles healthy by working at the cellular level to repolarize the cells of your muscles, helping to repair them faster and more efficiently.

3. Lower Risk of Heart Problems

Taking in a sufficient amount of potassium will put you at a lower risk of developing heart problems like stroke and heart disease. If you’ve already been diagnosed with a heart problem, you’ve likely been told to watch your level of potassium.

What’s interesting is that many of the foods that are rich in potassium also contain antioxidants and other minerals that will help your heart and lead to greater overall healthiness. To complete your heart health profile be sure you’re getting adequate amount of exercise each day, such as a walk, strength training, or yoga.

How Potassium Helps: Your cardiovascular system benefits from reduced blood pressure, which puts less strain on the arteries and heart. In their more relaxed state, your heart and arteries can function better, resulting in more energy in the present, and a longer life going forward.

4. Maintains Fluid Balance

bananaGetting enough potassium each day helps keep your internal fluids balanced correctly. Potassium is just one part of the equation, and you’ll want to make sure you’re getting all of your important minerals to maintain a balance of electrolytes in your bloodstream.

You’ll want to watch how much sodium you’re taking in, since many of the foods found in restaurants, fast food joints, and pre-packaged foods contain a lot of low-grade salt. Making your own food gives you control over how much sodium it contains. Calcium is another mineral to watch in order to maintain a healthy fluid balance in the body.

How Potassium Helps: Potassium, as well as calcium and sodium help make up the electrolyte balance in the body. Drinking enough water is essential for the right fluid balance, and you’ll want to determine the right amount of water for your body size and weight and be sure to drink it daily.

5. Stronger Bones

Potassium is one key to the healthy bone puzzle that you don’t want to forget. Calcium generally gets the most attention when it comes to essential minerals for bone health, but you’ll need to keep an eye on more than just one, including potassium.

The body is a system of complex subsystems all working together to keep you moving. Bones don’t rely on just one mineral, but an array of vitamins and minerals in order to thrive. You probably don’t pay much attention to your bones until they start having problems, so it’s best to be proactive and help them stay healthy long before any problems arise.

How Potassium Helps: Along with calcium, phosphorous, manganese, and other key minerals, potassium works to keep your bones strong and healthy. Bones need the right minerals in order to continue to stay hard and prevent diseases like osteoporosis, making potassium a very beneficial item indeed.

6. Reduced Stress Levels

We could all use a little less stress in this modern world of ours, and a proper potassium level is key to handling the triggers of everyday life. You may not even notice when you’re low on potassium and it’s causing excess stress because it may seem normal to you now, or you may have labeled yourself as a stressful person.

potassium reduces stress

Because potassium is used by every cell in your body to continue on with its function, it only stands to reason that when you’re not getting enough you won’t be able to cope as well with stress.

How Potassium Helps: Potassium benefits you by keeping your stress down and helping to regulate your blood pressure. You’d be surprised at how much less stressed you’ll feel when your blood pressure is at a healthy level. It also helps to relax your muscles, which keeps you from tensing up and exacerbating the situation.

7. Improved Blood Pressure Numbers

High blood pressure is definitely something to be concerned about, and there’s a reason why your doctor checks it each time you go in for a check-up. Getting the right amount of potassium each day will help lower your blood pressure, and should be used in conjunction with a blood pressure conscious diet and lifestyle.

There are several serious conditions that high blood pressure is a precursor for, including heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes. Don’t leave yourself susceptible to these potentially life-ending conditions. Focus on your potassium intake until it becomes a habit.

How Potassium Helps: Potassium relaxes blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely and bringing down your blood pressure. Of course it is not the only factor in keeping your blood pressure where it needs to be, so consult with your healthcare professional to discuss diet and lifestyle changes you can make to keep it in a healthy range.

8. Increased Metabolism

metabolismPotassium helps knock out a sluggish metabolism and gets it back on track to natural levels of effectiveness. If you’ve ever had trouble losing weight while dieting, it could have been due to a slow metabolism brought on by, or worsened by, low potassium levels.

Getting enough potassium sets the stage for other minerals to do their job. Think of the vitamins and minerals you take in each day as a team designed to help you perform at your best. In order for the team to work properly, each team member must show up and do their job. Miss one component and it all works inefficiently and tends to break down.

How Potassium Helps: Potassium helps the body break down and metabolize foods by helping the other minerals you take in do their job. It’s a team player that is a vital component to your body’s metabolism.

9. Improved Nervous System

Your nervous system benefits greatly from regular consumption of foods rich in potassium. You may not be able to spot this benefit when you start getting more potassium, but running a shortage of potassium will produce symptoms that are identifiable.

This is a complex system that is responsible for sending signals throughout your body, and helping you interact with the world around you. It’s not something we generally give much attention to, and if you treat it right with adequate potassium from the foods you eat, it will treat you better in return.

How Potassium Helps: Potassium gets your nervous system to function the way it should by helping the tissues in your body on a cellular level. When your nervous system is happy, you’ll find that your health and wellbeing improve over time.

10. Prevents Muscle Cramps

One sign that you might be low on potassium is that your muscles are cramping for no apparent reason. If you’ve overused a muscle and it cramps up on you, that is understable, and may not be the result of too little potassium. But if you experience muscle cramps in muscles that haven’t been pushed to their max, you may want to put some attention on your potassium intake.

Muscle cramps may not be a huge problem, but preventing them with potassium is easy enough. Muscle cramps and twitches can also be used as an early sign that your potassium levels are low. Take action to correct this imbalance and you should see an improvement in symptoms.