Studies have shown that potassium rich foods can lower blood pressure, improve blood vessel function, reduce risk of stroke, strengthen muscles, help preserve bone density, prevent kidney stones and remedy insomnia.

Potassium is found in many fruits and vegetables, so one of the main sources of a potassium deficiency would be not eating enough of these.

Sometimes potassium is referred to as vitamin K, but they are actually not the same.  Vitamin K is a vitamin found in many fresh foods and potassium is a mineral.

One of the healthiest, highest sources of potassium is the banana, which contains 400 milligrams.  Other good potassium rich foods are avocados, prunes, spinach, sunflower seeds and almonds.

One recent study from the Journal “Sleep” researched the effects of potassium supplements on sleep quality.  The researchers gathered data from wrist monitors and notes made in sleep diaries.  Normal young males on a low-potassium diet participated in the study.  After one week of taking potassium supplements, there were significant improvements in their quality of sleep and less waking up during the night.

This health news is shared with you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, as well as Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, and stronger hair and nails.