5 Signs of a Potassium Deficiency & HOW to Fix

Thomas DeLauer

Thomas DeLauer

9 min, 40 sec

The video discusses the importance of potassium, its role in the nervous system, symptoms of deficiency, and ways to address it, particularly on a low carb or ketogenic diet.

Summary

  • Potassium functions like a slingshot in the nervous system, regulating action potentials and muscle function.
  • Symptoms of potassium deficiency include sensitivity to salt, muscle stiffness, numbness, mental fatigue, mood swings, and insomnia.
  • Quick self-test for deficiency involves observing immediate mental lift from consuming electrolytes.
  • Solutions include consuming electrolyte-rich foods like avocados and beet greens, and supplements such as Element electrolyte powder.

Chapter 1

Introduction to Potassium Deficiency

0:00 - 16 sec

An introduction to recognizing potassium deficiency, its symptoms, and importance in the body, especially on a low carb diet.

An introduction to recognizing potassium deficiency, its symptoms, and importance in the body, especially on a low carb diet.

  • Potassium deficiency is identified by specific symptoms.
  • Potassium plays a critical role in the nervous system and muscle function.

Chapter 2

Potassium's Role in the Nervous System

0:23 - 32 sec

Explanation of the role of potassium in nerve transmission and muscle contraction.

Explanation of the role of potassium in nerve transmission and muscle contraction.

  • Potassium and sodium work together to enable nerve signal transmission.
  • Lack of potassium can result in muscles remaining in a locked position.

Chapter 3

Immediate Effects of Potassium on Mental Function

0:55 - 57 sec

Details on how potassium deficiency affects the brain and a quick self-test using electrolytes.

Details on how potassium deficiency affects the brain and a quick self-test using electrolytes.

  • Consuming electrolytes can provide an immediate mental boost.
  • The brain, being an area of high nerve activity, is sensitive to electrolyte levels.

Chapter 4

Physical Symptoms of Potassium Deficiency

1:52 - 1 min, 8 sec

A look at the physical symptoms that indicate a potassium deficiency.

A look at the physical symptoms that indicate a potassium deficiency.

  • Sensitivity to salt and muscle stiffness are strong indicators of potassium deficiency.
  • Potassium's absence can lead to constricted blood vessels and muscle cell rupture.

Chapter 5

Cramping and Workout-Related Potassium Deficiency

3:00 - 1 min, 42 sec

The relationship between cramping during or after workouts and potassium deficiency.

The relationship between cramping during or after workouts and potassium deficiency.

  • Cramping during workouts is often due to potassium issues.
  • Stiffness after workouts may indicate magnesium deficiency.

Chapter 6

Mental and Sleep Symptoms of Potassium Deficiency

4:42 - 1 min, 36 sec

Describing how potassium deficiency can lead to mental fatigue, mood swings, and insomnia.

Describing how potassium deficiency can lead to mental fatigue, mood swings, and insomnia.

  • Potassium deficiency can impact mental clarity and mood stability.
  • Electrolyte imbalances, common in keto, can disrupt sleep.

Chapter 7

Solutions for Potassium Deficiency

6:18 - 3 min, 20 sec

Various methods to address potassium deficiency, including dietary recommendations and supplements.

Various methods to address potassium deficiency, including dietary recommendations and supplements.

  • Element electrolyte supplements are suggested for managing potassium levels.
  • Avocados, brussels sprouts, beet greens, and pumpkin seeds are good food sources of potassium.

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