Supplement the required potassium element to prevent symptoms such as limb soreness.
Limbs are not as nimble, and arms are not as strong as before... This is nothing new for the elderly, after all, the various "parts" of the body have been used for so long, they are a bit "rusty." But if you feel limb soreness for several consecutive days, you should see a doctor, as this may be caused by a potassium deficiency.
Data shows that a certain concentration of potassium ions in the blood can maintain the normal function of muscle movement, myocardial function, and immune function. If the potassium intake from food is significantly lower than the required amount, symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps, and even paralysis, as well as arrhythmia, may occur.
Healthy adults generally do not have a potassium deficiency, but the elderly are different. First, elderly people often have poor teeth, coupled with a decline in intestinal digestive and absorption functions, and a monotonous diet, leading to insufficient potassium intake. Second, the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes is higher among the elderly, and some medications used in the treatment process can increase the excretion and consumption of potassium, making them more prone to hypokalemia. Song Xin, a dietitian from the Nutrition Department of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, told reporters that due to large amounts of sweating in summer, potassium deficiency is more common, but some data also points out that a sharp drop in temperature is also a high-incidence period for potassium deficiency.
So, how should the elderly supplement potassium? Song Xin believes that if the potassium deficiency is not very severe, intake from food is sufficient. "For the elderly's diet to supplement potassium, potatoes, bananas, pak choi, and rape are the top recommendations, as these foods have the highest potassium content." In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, egg yolks, liver, lean meat, and seafood should also be consumed in a balanced way.
In addition, some adjustments should be made in daily life. For example, after heavy sweating, you can drink some sports drinks. If the symptoms are severe, you should go to the hospital to take potassium supplements or receive intravenous infusions under a doctor's guidance.