Deficiency of this mineral increases the risk of hypertension

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High blood pressure puts a strain on the heart as it tries to to pump blood around the body. The longer it takes to treat the disease, the greater the risk of heart attack and stroke. Fortunately, this condition is easily preventable, but a deficiency of just one mineral can increase your risk.

High blood pressure is the end result of poor dietary choices that focus on high sodium intake. But potassium regulates the balance of water and electrolytes in the body, helping to eliminate excess sodium.

The mineral is crucial for balancing sodium levels in the blood and relaxing blood vessels. This improves blood flow in the body.

Symptoms of potassium deficiency, also known as hypokalemia, are usually mild, but should not be dismissed as benign. The first signs of low potassium levels usually include weakness and fatigue, sometimes accompanied by muscle cramps and spasms. Most people get enough potassium from a balanced diet. Fruits and vegetables are some of the best sources of potassium, and bananas are often cited as one of the richest foods in potassium.

However, researchers have previously warned that eating potassium-rich vegetables will not reverse sodium's effects on blood pressure .