1. What is Potassium Deficit?

Total body potassium deficit occurs when potassium intake is insufficient to meet daily requirements. Potassium is essential for proper nerve function, muscle control, and blood pressure regulation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple equation:

Where:

• Daily Requirement — Estimated potassium needs based on age, sex, and health status
• Intake — Actual potassium consumed from food and supplements

Explanation: The equation calculates the difference between what the body needs and what is actually consumed.

3. Importance of Potassium Balance

Details: Maintaining proper potassium levels is crucial for cardiovascular health, muscle function, and preventing hypokalemia which can cause weakness, fatigue, and heart rhythm disturbances.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter daily potassium requirement (typically 40-120 mmol/day for adults) and actual potassium intake from food sources. Both values should be in mmol.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are common sources of dietary potassium?
A: Bananas, oranges, potatoes, spinach, beans, and dairy products are rich in potassium.

Q2: How is potassium requirement determined?
A: Requirements vary by age, sex, and health status. Adults typically need 40-120 mmol/day.

Q3: What are symptoms of potassium deficiency?
A: Weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps, constipation, and in severe cases, abnormal heart rhythms.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This is a simple estimation and doesn't account for renal losses, medications, or other factors affecting potassium balance.

Q5: When should I consult a doctor about potassium levels?
A: If you experience symptoms of deficiency or have conditions affecting potassium balance (kidney disease, diuretic use).