In a three-year study of older adults, those who had higher potassium levels were found to have leaner body mass, indicating that a higher intake of potassium-rich fruits and vegetables may help preserve muscle mass. In the study, published in the March issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 384 men and women age 65 or older were evaluated for urinary potassium levels, measured for percentage of lean body mass, and questioned about their food intake every six months.
Those with a higher intake of potassium-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables had higher percentages of lean body mass. The researchers say more lean body mass is linked to fewer falls, so older adults should increase their produce intake. The recommended daily allowance of potassium for adults is 3,500 mg. Fruits highest in potassium include avocados, bananas, and cantaloupe; vegetables highest in potassium include asparagus, beans, and Brussels sprouts.
Those with a higher intake of potassium-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables had higher percentages of lean body mass. The researchers say more lean body mass is linked to fewer falls, so older adults should increase their produce intake. The recommended daily allowance of potassium for adults is 3,500 mg. Fruits highest in potassium include avocados, bananas, and cantaloupe; vegetables highest in potassium include asparagus, beans, and Brussels sprouts.
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