Which mineral is essential for proper nerve and heart function?

The essential mineral for proper nerve and heart function is potassium. Potassium plays a critical role in the electrical signaling necessary for nerve impulses and heart contractions. It helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. A balanced level of potassium is essential as it helps maintain normal blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.

When potassium levels are too low, known as hypokalemia, this can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and irregular heart rhythms, which can be serious. Therefore, maintaining adequate potassium intake is important for the optimal performance of both the nervous and cardiovascular systems.