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Multiple Choice
The low blood potassium levels seen among people with eating disorders may cause which of the following complications?
A
Increased bone density
B
Enhanced immune response
C
Cardiac arrhythmias
D
Improved muscle strength
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of potassium in the body: Potassium is a vital electrolyte that helps regulate nerve signals, muscle contractions, and heart function. Low potassium levels, known as hypokalemia, can disrupt these processes.
Focus on the cardiovascular system: Potassium is essential for maintaining the electrical activity of the heart. A deficiency can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, known as cardiac arrhythmias.
Eliminate incorrect options: Increased bone density, enhanced immune response, and improved muscle strength are not directly related to low potassium levels. These options do not align with the physiological effects of hypokalemia.
Connect hypokalemia to cardiac arrhythmias: Low potassium levels impair the heart's ability to maintain a regular rhythm, leading to complications such as arrhythmias, which can be life-threatening.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the physiological role of potassium and the complications of hypokalemia, cardiac arrhythmias are the correct answer to the problem.