Potassium is one of seven inorganic, macro mineral nutrients needed in relatively high daily amounts. It is the third most prevalent element in the body after Calcium. Along with Chloride, Sodium, Magnesium and Calcium, Potassium is an essential electrolyte. These elements are called electrolytes because they carry an electrical charge when dissolved in body fluids. These elements are distributed throughout the body's fluids, including blood, lymph, interstitial and intracellular fluids. Electrolytes help regulate nerve transmission and many cell membrane functions. Magnesium helps maintain the Potassium in the cells, but even more crucial is the proper Sodium to Potassium balance. Potassium works with Sodium to regulate blood pressure, transmit nerve impulses, and maintain cellular wall permeability. The body should normally contain more Potassium than Sodium, but the standard American diet is too high in Sodium and too low in Potassium. This mineral is essential in proper amounts for