Many Women Have One of These Nutrient Deficiencies

5. Potassium

Potassium helps regulate the heartbeat, blood pressure, nerves, and muscle contraction. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans named this mineral a “nutrient of public health concern” due to prevalent low levels in Americans. The body requires much more potassium than sodium, but most processed foods provide the opposite proportions.

Water pills, some antibiotics, and excessive laxatives can make the kidneys excrete too much potassium from the body. Heavy sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, and eating disorders may also have this effect. Low potassium levels may cause weakness, fatigue, constipation, muscle cramps or paralysis, and abnormal heart rate.