Potassium is responsible for the maintenance of osmotic pressure in cells, for cell volume, and the regulation of water supply. It is also indispensable for ensuring that nerves and muscles function correctly. Likewise, some enzymes are dependent on potassium and are activated by this essential mineral.

A lack of potassium can increase the risk of hypertension and apoplexy. Potassium occurs in, among other things, bananas, milk, mushrooms, tomatoes, apricots, wheat germs, sweet peppers, and apples.

Chocolate and apples contain roughly the same volume of potassium. The amount of potassium present in milk chocolate is equivalent to that in dark chocolate. A portion of chocolate (40g) provides about 9% of the potassium required by an average adult each day.