Athletes involved in hard exercise may require larger quantities of potassium-rich foods. Potassium is found in meats, milk, fruits and vegetables. Many people know that high sodium intake may lead to hypertension. A reduction in sodium helps lower blood pressure in all people with hypertension. Newer evidence suggests that dietary potassium may play a role in decreasing blood pressure.
Potassium is involved in nerve function, muscle control and blood pressure.
Research suggests that the ratio of sodium to potassium in the diet may be more important than the specific amounts of sodium or potassium. A diet low in potassium and high in sodium may be a factor in high blood pressure. Increasing potassium in the diet may protect against hypertension in people who are sensitive to high levels of sodium. Athletes also may need more potassium to replace that lost from muscle during exercise and the smaller amount lost in sweat. Low potassium can cause muscle cramping and cardiovascular irregularities.