Potassium

Potassium serves as an essential electrolyte that mitigates the hypertensive effects of dietary sodium. Many seniors fall short of the recommended intake, elevating their risk for cardiovascular events.

The American Heart Association emphasizes that you can easily elevate your potassium levels by enjoying baked potatoes with the skin, bananas, lentils, and winter squash.

However, you must consult your healthcare team before drastically increasing your potassium intake if you have compromised kidney function or take specific blood pressure medications.