#Potassium

A recent wave of research has spotlighted a humble fruit rich in potassium as a powerful ally in combating high blood pressure, offering fresh hope to millions of Thais at risk for heart disease and stroke. Health experts say that regular consumption of this fruit, easily found in Thai markets, could play a crucial role in managing hypertension—a major health threat nationwide.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, afflicts roughly one in four Thai adults, according to the Ministry of Public Health. Left untreated, the condition can silently damage arteries and vital organs, elevating the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Addressing dietary factors is increasingly viewed as essential for prevention and control.

An increasing chorus of nutrition experts is warning about critical shortfalls in four essential nutrients—fiber, calcium, vitamin D, and potassium—among both Western and Asian populations. Despite growing public awareness of healthy eating, research shows that most adults are failing to meet daily recommendations for these key nutrients, a gap that experts link to heightened risk for chronic diseases, poor metabolic health, and diminished quality of life. Emerging data suggest this is not merely a Western phenomenon: while the United States faces striking deficiencies, Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries are also contending with shifting dietary patterns that threaten nutritional balance.

In the quest for a balanced diet, it’s common to underestimate the mineral potassium, which plays a pivotal role in maintaining kidney, heart, muscle, and brain functions. A recent article has shed light on the fact that while bananas are renowned for their potassium content, there are actually 20 other foods that outperform this popular fruit in supporting our potassium intake. This revelation is particularly relevant for Thai readers keen on diversifying their diets to harness the full array of health benefits that potassium offers.