Can magnesium and potassium be taken together?

Some minerals are designed to work together in the human body, while others are complete opposites. The former include iron and copper, while the latter undoubtedly include iron and calcium. Certain interactions are also observed among minerals that are classified as electrolytes, a perfect example of which is the cooperation between magnesium and potassium.

1. The role of electrolytes in cells
2. Magnesium and potassium deficiencies
3. Using magnesium and potassium together

The role of electrolytes in cells

The concentrations of mineral elements that are electrolytes in intracellular and extracellular fluids determine, among other things, the volume and shape of cells and the permeability of cell membranes.

Differences in concentrations and their changes are responsible, among other things, for generating action potentials, i.e. a type of impulse that conducts electrical and biochemical signals between cells. These signals regulate, among other things, the rhythmic work of the heart and communication between the brain and skeletal muscles. In physiological conditions, extracellular fluids mainly contain sodium and chlorine, while potassium and magnesium predominate inside cells.

Magnesium and potassium deficiencies

An insufficient supply of magnesium and potassium in the diet is one of the significant factors contributing to the development of hypertension and associated tissue damage, e.g. in the kidneys or nervous system. Deficiencies of these elements are often observed in people who neglect their diet and consume too much highly processed food, while avoiding fresh fruit and vegetables.

Low levels of magnesium and potassium consumption are often observed in people who regularly eat salty and sweet snacks, fast food, or toast and sandwiches without vegetables, but with a large amount of cold cuts, cheese and sauces. This leads to an excess of sodium and chlorine in the extracellular fluid, which then begins to penetrate the cells, leading to an increase in their volume and potential damage in extreme conditions.

WARNING! This situation can also occur, among other things, in the event of rapid overhydration of the body. This is one of the reasons why rehydrating too quickly with too much fluid can even be fatal, and why it is safer to rehydrate with fluids containing carbohydrates, such as carbo powders.

Using magnesium and potassium together

You can take magnesium together with potassium without hesitation; in fact, it is recommended. Magnesium and potassium are particularly important after meals that are rich in salt and lacking in vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds and grains.

Supplementing your diet with both compounds also makes sense on hot days or days with high levels of physical and mental activity. The richest food sources of both elements are potatoes and legume seeds. These products are also important sources of vitamin B6, which is why this vitamin often accompanies magnesium and potassium in dietary supplements.