|
Since Prednisone may cause a loss of blood potassium, here are some facts about this mineral. What it does: potassium helps prevent stroke, aids proper muscle contraction and, with sodium, controls the body's water balance. It is important for stabilizing blood pressure, and regulating the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes. This transfer of nutrients has been shown to decrease with age. Deficiency: signs are very dry skin, glucose intolerance, low blood pressure, edema, weakness, protein in the urine, muscle cramps, tiredness, diminished reflex function, depression and fluctuation in heartbeat. Alcohol, coffee, sugar, diuretics, low carbohydrate diets, mental and physical stress can all cause deficiencies. Dietary allowance: none has been set, but 1,600 to 2,000 mg. daily is considered sufficient for healthy adults. An intake of 18 grams can cause toxicity. Natural sources: baked potatoes with the skin (one seven-once has 844 mg.), avocado, beet greens and leafy greens, baked beans, tomatoes, sardines, lima beans, carrots, bananas (one large one has 451 mg.), fresh orange juice, swordfish, acorn squash, sweet potatoes, almonds and soybeans. Sources for potassium: Many common foods are rich in potassium. The figures in parentheses indicate milligrams of potassium per 100 grams. Fruits and juices - Dates (648)
- Bananas (370)
- Raisins (355)
- Plums (299)
- Nectarines (294)
- Apricots (281)
- Prunes (262)
- Tomato juice (227)
- Peaches (202)
- Orange juice (200)
- Oranges (200)
- Figs (152)
Meats - Veal (500)
- Chicken (411)
- Turkey (411)
- Liver (380)
- Beef (370)
- Pork (326)
- Lamb (290)
Fish - Sardines (590)
- Halibut (525)
- Scallops (476)
- Salmon (421)
- Haddock (348)
- Flounder (342)
- Tuna (301)
- Perch (284)
- Bass (256)
- Oysters (203)
Vegetables - Potatoes (407)
- Lima beans (394)
- Carrots (341)
- Spinach (324)
- Radishes (322)
- Sweet potatoes (300)
- Brussels sprouts (295)
- Endive (294)
- Asparagus (238)
- Cabbage (233)
- Peppers (213)
Miscellaneous - Peanuts (674)
- Gingersnaps (462)
- Graham crackers (384)
- Oatmeal cookies with raisins (370)
- Ice milk (195)
|
