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Potassium: Benefits and Foods High in Potassium

Discover Potassium benefits, top sources for vegans and carnivores and their Potassium content per 100g.

Luke Gartland avatar
Written by Luke Gartland
Updated over 10 months ago

What is Potassium?

Potassium is a crucial mineral and electrolyte that is essential for various bodily functions. It helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. High potassium intake is linked to reduced blood pressure, protection against stroke, and prevention of osteoporosis and kidney stones.

Benefits of Potassium

  • Fluid Balance: Maintains the balance of fluids in the body.

  • Muscle Contractions: Supports normal muscle function, including the heart muscle.

  • Nerve Function: Essential for the transmission of nerve impulses.

  • Blood Pressure: Helps to lower and control blood pressure levels.

  • Bone Health: Prevents bone loss and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

Foods High in Potassium

Here are some foods rich in Potassium along with their approximate Potassium content per 100 grams and the percentage of the daily recommended value (DRV) they provide. The DRV for Potassium is approximately 4,700 milligrams (mg) for both men and women.

Top Sources of Potassium for Carnivores

  1. Pork

    • Potassium content: 423 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 9%

    • Pork is a good source of potassium.

  2. Salmon

    • Potassium content: 366 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 8%

    • Salmon is a good source of potassium and omega-3 fatty acids.

  3. Beef

    • Potassium content: 318 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 7%

    • Beef provides potassium along with protein and other nutrients.

  4. Tuna

    • Potassium content: 302 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 6%

    • Tuna is another fish source that offers potassium.

  5. Chicken Breast

    • Potassium content: 256 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 5%

    • Chicken breast provides a moderate amount of potassium.

Top Sources of Potassium for Vegans

  1. Avocados

    • Potassium content: 485 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 10%

    • Avocados are rich in potassium and healthy fats.

  2. Spinach (Cooked)

    • Potassium content: 466 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 10%

    • Spinach is high in potassium and other essential nutrients.

  3. Bananas

    • Potassium content: 358 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 8%

    • Bananas are well-known for their potassium content.

  4. Sweet Potatoes

    • Potassium content: 337 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 7%

    • Sweet potatoes are a delicious and potassium-rich vegetable.

  5. Tomatoes

    • Potassium content: 237 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 5%

    • Tomatoes provide potassium and are versatile in many dishes.

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