Nutrition Spotlight: Potassium

Potassium is an important mineral that helps maintain normal blood pressure levels, helps muscles contract, and helps maintain a balance of fluid in the body that supports muscle, nerve, kidney and heart function.

Incorporate a variety of these potassium-rich foods into your everyday meals to help you feel your best.

• Bananas: Bananas are the best-known source of potassium. Also filled with fiber, vitamins A, B6 and C, magnesium and gut-nourishing prebiotics, bananas are an excellent addition to a balanced eating style. Slice a banana over cereal, oatmeal or whole-grain toast or eat it alone as a snack. You can also check out plantains – banana’s cousin – for another potassium-packed option.

• Salmon: Four ounces of salmon provides 15% of your daily potassium needs. Salmon is also rich in heart-smart omega-3 fats, protein and B vitamins. Eating fatty fish like salmon at least twice a week may help reduce the risk of chronic health conditions. Sear, poach, bake or grill salmon and serve it with veggies or in salads, wraps or tacos.

• Potatoes: One of the most concentrated and affordable sources of potassium, skin-on potatoes also contain fiber and vitamin C. They’re easy to prepare and can be used in a variety of ways. Use them to make baked potatoes, homemade gnocchi, potato soup or baked potato skins.

• Dark Leafy Greens: Dark leafy greens, including spinach, bok choy and Swiss chard, are potassium-rich. Enjoy a variety of leafy greens on pizza or in salads, soups, smoothies, sauces or pasta.