Nicotinic acid and pantothenic acid are necessary for the release of energy from fat and carbohydrate. Vitamin B6 is involved in the metabolism of proteins. Folic Acid plays a role in cell division. Potassium Potassium is vital for maintaining a normal heart beat. It enables nerves and muscles to function and regulates fluid levels within the cells.
Deficiency leads to erratic heartbeat and fatigue.
A normal, balanced diet should provide sufficient potassium for health. However, eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia and over exercise may lead to deficiency. Diuretics also lead to loss of potassium, so women who use diuretics to counteract water retention around the time of their period or those prescribed them for high blood pressure may also be at risk of deficiency. Tea is a rich source of potassium. Although the oxygen we breath is vital to life, it is also incorporated into very reactive substances called free radicals which are harmful to our bodies.