Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral in the body that helps maintain fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction, as well as the proper transmission of electrical impulses in the heart. Potatoes and bananas are especially good sources of potassium, which also is found in many meats, milks, fruits, vegetables, and grains.

Both low and high potassium levels can disrupt the normal electrical impulses in the heart, which leads to irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias).