Heart Health: Here's How Potassium Can Help Boost Cardiovascular Health; Know Food Sources

Your diet majorly affects your heart health. Poor diet and lifestyle can significantly increase the risk of heart diseases. Several nutrients support the functioning of the heart and potassium is one of these. Potassium helps in controlling various risk factors that can trigger a heart attack. It can bring down your blood pressure. It can improve your cholesterol levels. Potassium can also regulate muscle and heart contractions. However, not many consume enough potassium. Weakness, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, poor digestion, numbness and breathing issues are some symptoms of potassium deficiency. 

Heart health: Here's how potassium helps

High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of heart diseases. To control the risk of heart diseases you must ensure healthy blood pressure numbers. Adding potassium to your diet can help.  Potassium also supports a steady heart rhythm. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a diet high in potassium and low in sodium and processed foods can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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Enough potassium consumption can help you control high blood pressure
Photo Credit: iStock

Food sources of potassium

There are several food sources of potassium that are easily available. Some of these include-

1. Banana

Bananas are the best source of potassium. You can easily find banana throughout the year. This fruit will also provide other essential nutrients like vitamin C, fibre, antioxidants, magnesium and more.

Also read: Heart Health: Artery Cleansing Foods You Must Include In Your Diet

2. Dried apricots

Dried apricots can offer you several health benefits. It can boost your eye health, digestion, skin health and also promote weight loss. It is also a good source of potassium. Add a few dried apricots to your evening snacks.

Also read: Heart Health: Simple Lifestyle Modifications To Lower Your Heart Disease Risk

3. Spinach

Green leafy vegetables are extremely healthy. Spinach is one of the best options to choose from. Spinach is also a great source of potassium that can be added to salads, smoothies or curries.

Spinach is loaded with potassium and other essential nutrients
Photo Credit: iStock

4. Orange and orange juice

Oranges are a great source of vitamin C as well as potassium. You can eat an orange or drink orange juice. Oranges will also help you fight inflammation.

Also read: What Is Cardiac Arrest? Know Symptoms And How To Help Someone During An Emergency

Other food sources- salmon, yogurt, beets, potato, sweet potato, lentils, tomato juice, raisins, beans and seafood.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.