Cebu City - What is the relationship between potassium and sodium? Are they good for the body?

All body tissues require the mineral potassium. It is also called an electrolyte since it carries a small amount of charge that activates cells and other nerve functions. The main role of potassium is to help maintain the fluid inside the cells of our body.

While sodium, being the counterpart of potassium maintains the regular fluid levels outside of the cells.

According to Harvard, although sodium and potassium are closely related, their physiological effects are diametrically opposed. Both are vital nutrients that are important for preserving physiological equilibrium and have been associated with an increased risk of chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease. High potassium intake can help relax blood vessels and assist the body eliminate sodium while lowering blood pressure, whereas high sodium intake raises blood pressure and can contribute to the development of heart disease.

Potassium food sources is widely available in fruits and vegetables. Also, green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, and dairy foods are also rich sources of this mineral.

According to CDC, more than 40% of the daily sodium we need from just ten different food categories. The fact that certain foods are on the list often don't taste salty surprises a lot of people. Some of these foods are breads and rolls, pizzas, sandwiches, cold cuts and cured meats, soups, burritos and tacos, savory snacks, and cheese.

Bottom line is that these two trace minerals are essential and can give health benefits to the body. But it is important to note the recommended intake for each trace minerals to ensure that you are within the threshold level and avoid its negative effects if in excess. // PDO I Noah Vincent D. Gallo, RND, MSPH

Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/salt/sources.htm
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/potassium/