Potassium is a mineral that can provide health benefits for the human body. In regulated quantities, potassium helps boost muscle contraction, aiding recovery after muscle strain. It also provides the body with proper transportation and distribution of liquids, keeping a proper level of hydration. Exercise nuts, people in physically strenuous jobs, and anyone looking to maintain total body health should make sure they eat a few potassium-rich foods each day.
For fruit lovers, a virtual salad of potassium-rich foods is available. Bananas, apples, cantaloupe, and pears all carry high levels of the mineral. Some fitness experts recommend eating a banana, or fruit-filled smoothie after working out. Not only will this serve as a healthy, refreshing post-workout snack, adding bananas, pineapples, or mangoes will boost potassium levels and help muscles recover more quickly.
Lentils, beans and peas are all examples of potassium-rich foods. Brew up a hearty soup or stew filled with lima, kidney or pinto beans combined with lentils for a fabulous winter lunch. Even baked beans and chili can be potassium-rich foods, all working to help your body maintain healthy functioning level.
Potassium-rich foods also dwell in the vegetable kingdom, although some are much more beneficial than others. Leafy green veggies are a great source of any number of nutrients, including potassium. Throw together a salad of spinach, tomatoes and avocado for a hearty dinner full of potassium. Winter squash, such as pumpkins, acorn or butternut squash, can also provide a healthy dollop of the mineral, but be aware: potassium is often contained in the skin of the vegetable, so be certain to avoid paring the skin when possible.
Snack foods may not always be great for the waistline, but a variety of potassium-rich foods can made healthy, between meal snacks. Almonds, peanuts, and Brazil nuts all contain healthy doses of potassium. For those who like sweet healthy snacks, potassium is present in raisins, prunes, and figs.
Healthy people should maintain their potassium intake carefully, as overdose is possible. It is likely that just feasting on potassium-rich foods will provide the body with the needed mineral, but check potassium levels in any vitamin supplements. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends an adult daily intake of potassium not exceeding 4700 mg. By balancing any vitamin intake with delicious, potassium-rich foods, most healthy adults can get the needed requirements without any harmful overdosing effects.
