Potassium and sodium are two extremely important macroelements in the human body and play an extremely critical role. They are all cations. Potassium is located in the intracellular fluid, and sodium is located in the extracellular fluid. Both perform their own duties and coordinate with each other.

Potassium participates in the metabolic activities of cells and provides suitable conditions for the normal activities of certain enzymes. The most prominent role of potassium is to maintain the normal excitability, self-discipline and conductivity of cardiomyocytes. Both hypokalemia and hyperkalemia can cause serious damage to the human body. In mild cases, it can cause fatigue and irritability. In severe cases, it can cause arrhythmia and even sudden death. Therefore, clinical changes in serum potassium are highly valued. The normal daily supply of potassium for adults is 2-3 grams, and for children, it is 0.05 grams per kilogram of body weight. Potassium is generally found in plant and animal foods, especially in various vegetables, fruits and mushrooms. Patients with elevated blood potassium should be cautious when eating these foods.

Sodium can enhance neuromuscular excitability. When sodium is deficient, the body shows symptoms such as decreased appetite, nausea, headache, general weakness, accelerated heartbeat, decreased blood pressure, etc. In severe cases, it can even lead to collapse. Especially if you perform heavy exercise under the scorching sun and high temperature, and sweat a lot, resulting in a large loss of sodium, the above situation is prone to occur. The normal daily sodium requirement for adults is 6 grams, for children 3 grams, and for infants 1 gram. The sodium content in the diet generally exceeds normal physiological requirements, so it is generally not a deficiency.

In addition to the above-mentioned respective functions, potassium and sodium also play an extremely important role in regulating acid-base balance, maintaining osmotic pressure and maintaining water balance.