The Leafy Green With More Potassium Than Bananas

Potassium is an electrolyte that offers several important benefits. It helps balance sodium, supports healthy fluid levels in the body, and can ease muscle cramps. That is why bananas are often suggested when you feel tired or crampy: they contain potassium and are easy to eat. But bananas are only an average source of this mineral. If you want a much bigger potassium boost, reach for beet greens.

Beet greens may not be as convenient as a banana on the go, but they are far richer in potassium. One cup of beet greens contains 1,308 milligrams of potassium, more than 50% higher than the 805 milligrams found in a cup of bananas. Instead of throwing those greens away, put them on your plate.

More foods rich in potassium

Beet greens are not the only food that tops bananas for potassium per cup. For something sweet, red bean paste is another strong choice. Common in Japanese baked goods and mochi, the paste is made from adzuki beans. A cup contains 1,223 milligrams of potassium and also provides 17 grams of protein. The next time you enjoy taiyaki, the fish-shaped Japanese pastry, try the traditional red bean filling.

If you want another leafy option, Swiss chard has 960 milligrams of potassium per cup. You can start the day with a green goddess smoothie made with Swiss chard, strawberries, and bananas, and make meaningful progress toward the daily target of 3,400 milligrams for men and 2,600 milligrams for women. Swiss chard is also easy to grow at home, and its colorful stems can add visual appeal to a garden.