According to a National Institutes of Health clinical trial, most patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis(RA) do not have high enough intake of potassium in their diet. Deficiencies in potassium  reduces cortisol, a hormone that is involved in immune function and inflammatory response and can result in many RA symptoms.

Potassium is an electrolyte that plays a role in muscle contraction and nerve transmission.  It is also involved in the storage of carbohydrates for muscles.  The relationship between Potassium and sodium and choride is important in maintaining the body’s ph balance. Many expert have recommended that the ratio between potassium and sodium should be 5  times more potassium than sodium.

How can you increase you intake of potassium? Well the best way to increase your potassium intake is in your diet. Food rich in potassium include, sweet potato, banana, potato, plums, prunes, orange juice and oranges, tomatoes, cantaloupe, peaches, spinach, almonds, and  molasses. Cooked foods can loose significant levels of potassium, so when possible choose raw fruits and vegtables. You can get potassium in a multi-vitamin suppliment as well, however the preferred method is in your diet.