Most people know that excess sodium can raise blood pressure, but fewer realize that potassium and sodium work together to keep blood pressure in check. Your kidneys filter your blood and remove excess fluid, which is then expelled as urine. The balance between sodium and potassium determines how much fluid is retained or released. If you have too much sodium and not enough potassium, your body holds onto more fluid, causing your blood pressure to rise. Unfortunately, fewer than 2 percent of U.S. adults meet the recommended potassium intake, putting many at risk for hypertension. Enjoying two bananas each day can help restore this crucial balance and support healthy blood pressure levels.
