A new study has found that potassium plays a vital role in maintaining heart health, yet many people around the world unknowingly suffer from its deficiency. Health experts have warned that improving dietary habits can significantly reduce the risk of major heart diseases. According to the findings, adequate potassium intake can lower the risk of stroke by 20 percent and heart disease by up to 24 percent.

Experts emphasized that populations with high salt consumption are particularly vulnerable to potassium deficiency. They cautioned that millions remain unaware of this hidden shortage, which increases the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other health complications. Poor dietary awareness and the widespread consumption of processed, high-salt foods are worsening the problem.

Professor John Young of Teesside University noted that modern diets are a major cause of declining potassium levels. Potassium supports nerve signaling, muscle contraction, heartbeat regulation, and blood pressure control. Even mild deficiency can cause muscle cramps, constipation, and headaches, while severe cases may lead to confusion, depression, irregular heartbeat, and breathing difficulties if untreated.