Bananas VS Superfoods: Don’t worry if you don’t like bananas! These 6 vegetarian foods will remove potassium deficiency in the body, are a boon for heart and muscles.

Potassium is such an essential mineral for our body, without which neither our heart can beat properly nor our muscles can function. It plays an important role in sending messages to the nervous system and maintaining the balance of fluids in the body. Often people recommend ‘banana’ as soon as the name of potassium comes, but if you do not like banana or are allergic to it, then there is no need to worry. Nature has given us many ‘superfoods’ which contain more potassium than banana. Why is potassium important? (WHO’s opinion) According to the World Health Organization (WHO), increasing the amount of potassium in your diet can reduce the risk of high blood pressure in youth to a great extent. A healthy adult needs 2,600 to 3,400 milligrams of potassium daily. If there is a deficiency of it in the body, which is called hypokalemia in medical language, then fatigue, muscle cramps (spasms), irregular heartbeat and digestive problems can start. 6 best alternatives to banana: Which are rich in potassiumIf you are looking for an alternative to banana (451mg per medium fruit), then make these foods a part of your diet: Superfood Potassium content (approximately) Main benefits Dried apricots Apricots) 755 mg (½ cup) This is a potassium powerhouse, which is great for a snack. Avocado (690 mg (one medium)) Contains heart-healthy fats that can reduce the risk of heart diseases by 20%. Watermelon (2 slices) 640 mg (two slices) Makes up for the lack of electrolytes along with hydration in summer. Raisins (Raisins) 615 mg (½ cup) When mixed with nuts, it becomes an instant source of energy and potassium. Coconut Water (Coconut Water) 600 mg (one cup) More effective than plain water for re-hydration after a workout. Cooked Pumpkin (Pumpkin) 465 mg (½ cup) A very beneficial and low-calorie option as a soup or vegetable. Symptoms of potassium deficiency: You too Are you not a victim? When the level of potassium in the body falls, your body may give these signs: Muscle cramps: Suddenly feeling a strain in the legs or veins at night. Fatigue: Feeling extremely weak and lethargic even after adequate sleep. Tingling: Numbness or a feeling of pins and needles in the hands and feet. Irregular heartbeat: Feeling a sudden fast or slow heartbeat. Caution and Expert Tip Potassium for heart It works like ‘magic’ for health because it controls BP by reducing the ill effects of sodium (salt). However, kidney patients should consume potassium only on the advice of a doctor, because the kidneys are responsible for removing excess potassium from the body. For best results, choose natural alternatives without sugar (like plain coconut water).