POTASSIUM & SODIUM
Electrolytes
Potassium is the major positively
charged electrolyte in the intracellular
fluid.
Sodium is the primary positively
charged electrolyte in the extracellular
fluid.
FUNCTION IN THE BODY
NA+/K+ PUMP
FUNCTION IN THE BODY
POTASIUM
Regulates contraction of muscles.
Assists in transmission of nerve cells.
Assists in maintaining blood pressure.
FUNCTION IN THE BODY
SODIUM
Necessary for regulation of blood and
body fluid.
Transmission of nerve impulses.
Heart activity .
Metabolic functions.
FOOD SOURCES
POTASSIUM
Fresh foods such as fruits and
vegetables.
Salt substitutes made from potassium
chloride.
FOOD SOURCES SODIUM
Most commonly added to food in the
form of sodium chloride (table salt).
Found naturally in meat, nuts, grains,
fruit and vegetables.
Dairy products in low amounts.
Processed food.
RDA POTASSIUM
4.7g day for adult men and women age
19 to 50 years of age.
RDA SODIUM
2,400mg/day.
Less than one tenth of most diets.
DEFICIENCIES & DISEASE
POTASSIUM
Increased potassium intake is
associated with a decreased level
of stroke.
Increased potassium intake is
associated with significantly lower
blood pressure.
DEFICIENCIES & DISEASE
SODIUM
High blood pressure.
Increased excretion of calcium, loss of
bone density.
Hyponatremia- low blood sodium levels.
Can result in headaches, dizziness,
fatigue, nausea, vomiting & muscle
cramps.
FUN FACT SODIUM
• SODIUM IS NOT NEEDED BY
PLANTS, THEREFORE, A
COMPLETLEY PLANT BASED DIET
WILL BE VERY LOW IN SODIUM. THIS
REQUIRES SOME HERBIVORES TO
OBTAIN SODIUM FROM SALT LICKS
AND OTHER MINERAL SOURCES.