Healthy Easting – Best Potassium Rich Foods for Heart Health

For many type 2 diabetics looking to control their blood sugar and manage their body weight, carbohydrates are the main focus. And there is nothing wrong with it. Carbohydrates must be strictly regulated in those with this condition. But, it shouldn’t be all you’re looking at. The truth is, you should also consider the other macronutrients in your diet. These include the vitamins and minerals that your food supplies. One particular mineral of importance is potassium.

What makes potassium so important? Why do you need it in your food plan? Potassium is not only crucial for supporting healthy muscle contractions, which will make your time in the gym more efficient, but it’s also a great way to help promote better heart health. Potassium works in conjunction with sodium to maintain blood pressure, which then influences the health of your heart.

Eat the right potassium-rich foods, and you can make sure your blood pressure is under control. So which foods should you focus on? Which one will give you the best “value for money” so to speak? Let’s look at the best potassium-rich foods to include in your diet…

bananas Bananas are the first food on the list. Banana is especially good during the training period because it contains an ideal mix of starch and simple sugars. You won’t get too much dietary fiber with this fruit, which is good news, as the fiber can give you a bit of digestive upset before intense exercise.

Serve the banana with a little nut butter if you like or blend it into a protein shake.

Sweet potatoes. Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium – unfortunately, regular potatoes are high on the glycemic index so they are not ideal for type 2 diabetics and managing their blood sugar. Instead, try sweet potatoes.

Sweet potatoes contain more dietary fiber and rank lower on the GI scale despite having a sweet taste. Prepare them with a little oil or even butter, and you’ll absorb more of the potato’s nutrition.

Beans. Beans are another delicious food that will help you increase your potassium intake. While most would consider beans a primary source of carbohydrates, they also come with a healthy dose of protein, making them ideal for those who don’t eat a lot of meat.

Serve beans a few nights a week and this can improve your body weight and promote better heart health.

Tomatoes. Tomatoes are another food that helps increase your potassium level. Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, which is excellent for fighting certain varieties of cancer such as prostate cancer. Tomatoes are also low in calories, making them ideal for those looking to lose weight.

Here are some points regarding what foods to include in your diet plan to increase your potassium intake. Potassium plays many essential roles in the body, so make sure you don’t overlook it.