What are the functions of potassium in human body?

Potassium ions are essential for the human body and are also present in plants. Our body contains approximately 2.6 g of potassium per kg of our body weight, and performs many biological functions including:

*Potassium is an obligatory component of all cells hence, the greater the number of cells the more is the increase in potassium. Its levels are controlled by the kidneys. Primarily, potassium functions to regulate water and mineral balance throughout the body.

*Potassium is required for the maintenance of osmotic pressure and fluid balance within the cells.

*Potassium is required for enzymatic reactions which take place within the cell. Some potassium is bound to phosphate in the process of formation of glucose to glycogen. It is required for insulin secretion, creatine phosphorylation, carbohydrate metabolism and protein synthesis. The ratio of intracellular to extracellular potassium is the major determinant of muscular and neuronal excitability and if this balance is disturbed, various pathological states can develop.

*The small concentration of potassium in the ECF, it is required to transmit nerve impulse to muscle fibers, along other ions. Potassium ions are crucial for the functioning of neurons, by influencing the osmotic balance between cells and the interstitial fluid.

Include in a diet plan, lean meats such as salmon and other fish, chicken, and turkey—each provide over 400 milligrams of potassium for every 3 ounce portion.
What are the functions of potassium in human body?