| [ Summary ] |
Potassium is the main cation contained in intracellular fluid. It is an important factor in determining the osmotic pressure of aqueous humors and maintaining acid-base balance, as well as many biological functions. Recently, evidence has also accumulated concerning the protective effects provided by adequate dietary potassium intake on age-related bone loss. Potassium intake has been associated with reduced urinary calcium excretion. Potassium lowers bone resorption markers. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of potassium and play important roles in protecting against hypertension and, perhaps, in improving bone health. Also as the urinary excretion of sodium is related to potassium intake, it is believed that increasing ingestion of potassium is especially important for the Japanese population. |