Three Ways Potassium Helps You Lose Weight

Potassium isn't always hailed as a major weight loss aid - until now. As we learn more about potassium's role in various muscle, cellular, cardiac and other functions, we're realizing that it serves as a reliable and necessary middle man that makes multiple weight loss  functions possible. Here are three top ways that potassium can help you shed pounds.

• It helps boost metabolism and energy:Potassium  gives your body components necessary to provide energy for physical activity by aiding in its use of metabolism-boosting nutrients, including iron, magnesium and calcium. For instance, people with low iron levels invariably have low metabolisms. But the issue may have less to do with an iron deficiency than with a potassium deficiency. Without proper potassium levels the body cannot effectively process iron and make use of it. By boosting potassium levels, you'll also boost your iron levels, which can improve energy and better assure you'll stay off the couch.
• It helps build muscle: Potassium combines with magnesium to aid in muscle contraction, control and growth. Bigger, stronger muscles burn more calories.
• It prevents excess fluid retention:As an electrolyte, potassium combines with sodium help regulate fluids around your cells and keep you from retaining too much water. This is important because at any given time, you may be holding on to three to five pounds of water weight. 

Foods rich in potassium include dark leafy greens, beans, potatoes, yogurt, fish, avocados, squash, mushrooms and bananas. Visit the Metabolic Research Center website for recipes that include these and other high-potassium ingredients. And while you're there, be sure to schedule a free consultation with a weight loss specialist at the MRC location nearest you or call 866-475-2915.