Cancer is a life-threatening disease that takes the lives of millions all over the world. It is also one of the few ailments humans have no anecdote to. This means the field of cancer research is robust and everyday developments are being reported. Though the type of cancer could vary in reason, studies have been suggesting that there is a connection between Potassium levels in your body and Cancer.
Potassium And The Cancer Connection
You can never underestimate the need for potassium in your body. One must have enough Potassium for the nerves to power through and send all the right signals. Moreover, it also contributes to keeping the muscles functioning and the heart beating.
This means people with low potassium levels often find it difficult to control their heartbeat or in some cases have lower than the average 72 per minute. Our digestive system is far more complex than we assume it to be. This means potassium is also a major contributor to the process of passing the food smoothly through one’s stomach.
People with high blood pressure are often suggested to take Potassium as it can counter the excess Sodium content in one’s body. High blood pressure is the primary cause of coronary and cardiac health defects. Lastly, the pH balance in our body has a lot to do with the Potassium content in it. Various studies conducted by renowned scientists have yielded surprising results. They believe that a lower Potassium content could be the reason why one develops cancer.
Cancer is characterized by the occurrence of cancerous cells that go through abnormal growth rates. It is often rapid and affects every part of the body gradually. We could often differentiate them based on the part they affect but their primary features are quite similar.
Cancer cells form tumors, invade tissues, and metastasize to other organs to the point that the body is full of them. Commonly all of them disrupt the growth of normal or healthy cells which are required for the functioning of the body. Not only can it invade, but it multiples within a short period which is the major concern when finding treatment for the disease.
Apart from genetics, your environmental habits and family history could put you at risk. But how does the Potassium level fit in the picture? As discussed Potassium retains the fluid nature of the cells. Scientifically called Hypokalemia, the low level of Potassium could trigger the loss of electrolytes in humans. In such cases, cancer is known to attack the cells easily. However, there is no concrete proof to establish this theory.
Scientists have been able to discover and collect proof for the reverse. This means continuous bouts of chemotherapy could decrease the level of Potassium in your body. For instance, cancers like renal carcinoma meddle with the kidney. The kidney is chosen to perform the duty of balancing out the Potassium levels present in our body. But when this is disrupted, it is only natural that the body loses its ability to gain or subtract any.
Cancer medications as well as modifications to the diet are also known to cause potential Hypokalemia. Diuretics tend to lose Potassium in larger quantities which are often taken when one is diagnosed with cancer to alleviate some of its symptoms.
How To Maintain Potassium Levels In The Body?
Potassium levels can be managed easily by having a balanced diet with lots of leafy vegetables, probiotics, and protein content. Bananas, Oranges, Spinach, avocado, and legumes can add enough Potassium to your food. Drinking water also helps the kidney strike a balance between the two. Not only sodium intake but alcohol and smoking could also affect the way your body processes Potassium. In any case, if there are serious concerns, one must contact the doctor immediately and seek help.
Conclusion
Potassium is an essential mineral required by our body for various tasks. They are crucial to keep the electrolyte balance in the body which is a major source of energy. Not only does this help with bodily functions but also helps cells maintain their natural form. So it is crucial to keep it regulated with a proper diet and healthy routine. Get checkup routinely to ensure the work you do is enough.
