Good to know: these 8 foods contain more potassium than a banana

What do you know about potassium? 

This mineral is essential for the proper functioning of the human body for several reasons.

It allows for proper transmission of nerve impulses, but it is especially essential for muscle contraction. And when we talk about muscles, that also means... the heart muscle! Thus, potassium helps prevent hypotension and cardiovascular diseases.

Moreover, it plays an important role in the functioning of the kidneys and adrenal glands, in addition to helping prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Athletes have also understood the benefits of this mineral since it plays a key role in the transformation of proteins and carbohydrates.

If your doctor or trainer has suggested you increase your potassium intake, the first thing that probably came to mind was to eat more bananas. 

Indeed, the banana is known as a source of potassium. But it is not the food that contains the most of it, contrary to popular belief.

A medium-sized banana contains about 420 mg of potassium, equivalent to 12% of the recommended daily value.

How to consume more potassium? Here are 8 foods that contain more potassium per serving than a banana!

1. Salmon

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4 ounces of salmon provide 15% of the required daily value of potassium.

Additionally, since it contains a lot of omega-3s, salmon is doubly excellent for heart health.

2. Avocado

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Did you know that 1/2 cup of mashed avocado provides 16% of the required daily value of potassium?

Avocados are packed with good fats essential for cardiovascular health. Moreover, they contain fibers that North American adults tend not to consume sufficiently. 

Additionally, according to the site "Eating Well", a study revealed that "eating half an avocado for breakfast helped people feel full for up to 5 hours after the meal". It's worth trying!

3. Yogurt

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1 cup of non-fat plain yogurt will provide about 18% of the required daily value of potassium.

A tip: avoid flavored yogurts which always contain much more sugar and opt for plain yogurt. It also contains probiotics that help maintain your gut health.

 

4. Baked Acorn Squash

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1 cup of acorn squash (baked) provides 26% of the required daily value of potassium.

We should consume acorn squash much more often since it contains a multitude of minerals and vitamins! In addition to being rich in fiber and potassium, it is an excellent source of vitamins A and C. It also contains vitamin B6, folic acid, and vitamin K.    

5. Dried Apricots

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1/2 cup of dried apricots provides about 22% of the required daily value of potassium.

It is an excellent snack for both young and old. In addition to its high potassium content, a serving of dried apricots provides good fibers that contribute to heart health.

6. Baked Potato (with skin)

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1 medium-sized baked potato provides 26% of the required daily value of potassium.

By eating the skin of your potatoes, you will consume even more nutrients and minerals beneficial to your health. A medium-sized potato, baked, contains a large amount of potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

7. White Beans

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1/2 cup of white beans provides 17% of the required daily value of potassium.

In addition to containing a lot of potassium and fiber, white beans are an excellent source of plant-based proteins. A perfect alternative for those who want to consume less meat.

8. Leafy Green Vegetables

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Did you know that 1 cup of cooked spinach provides 24% of  the required daily value of potassium?

Add leafy green vegetables to all your recipes! They are a good source of potassium and contain calcium, vitamin C, as well as vitamin K.