Potassium

Potassium (K) is a macromineral commonly referred to as an electrolyte because it helps maintain the body's acid/base balance and hydration status Potassium is important in acid-base balance, regulation of osmotic pressure, water balance, muscle contractions, nerve impulse transmission, and certain enzymatic reactions.

As forages mature, the potassium content decreases, and low concentrations of potassium have been observed in range forage and in accumulated tall fescue during the winter (Clanton, 1980). Cereal grains are often deficient (<0.5 percent) in potassium, and high-concentrate diets may require potassium supplementation unless a high-potassium forage or protein supplement is included in the diet.