dizzy and weak

[wildkitty]

I am 5 1/2 months into raw and last week I was very weak and dizzy to the point where I thought I would pass out. I ended up going to a conventional doctor against my better judgment and he said that my potassium levels were low. He gave me some potassium pills, (I don't know why I needed a prescription for potassium) and told me to go home and drink some gatorade. He then said that a raw food diet can be deficient because processed foods are often fortified with nutrients that a raw food diet doesn't supply enough of. Anyone else heard of this? Sounds illogical and ridiculous, but I am still wondering why I was low in potassium and feeling weak. I eat tons of fruit and greens every day and am inclined to think that I may be detoxing and depleting some of these minerals. Any thoughts or similar experiences?

[RawHeaven]

My potassium levels were right on the borderline with my last blood work test results. Not bad, but not great either.

I started eating tons of bananas as an experiment.

2 frozen bananas in each smoothie and then I fell in love with banana ice cream and would have 2-3 more in the evening with a sprinkle of raw cacao powder...mmmm.

My potassium levels are now above "normal". Whatever normal is. :)

Try eating more bananas and throw those drugs in the trash can are my 2 cents. :)

Edit: Actually don't throw them in the trash as they're probably toxic, take them back to the pharmacy for disposal if you return them. Peace, Crystal.

[shashibala]

Potassium levels can be low due to loss through diarrhea, excess urination, lots of sweating from exercise. Perhaps you are losing too many fluids? Potassium is very important as it has a key role in keeping blood pressure high enough and in keeping your heart, and other muscles healthy.
Here are some foods with lots of potassium:
(from the internet)

potassium (more than 225 milligrams per 1/2 c. serving)

Apricots (fresh more so than canned)
Avocado
Banana
Cantaloupe
Honeydew
Kiwi
Lima beans
Oranges and orange juice
Potatoes
Prunes
Spinach
Tomatoes
Vegetable juice
Winter squash