We have noticed that the food shipped to the Yushu earthquake-stricken area is mainly instant noodles, bread, rice, etc. This is undoubtedly correct. Because these foods contain more energy and are easy to carry, the method of eating is also simple. Instant noodles and breads can be consumed directly without heating or adding water.

　　 However, the common disadvantage of these foods is that the potassium content is very low, which is not conducive to the prevention of hypokalemia. It has been reported that low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia, blood potassium 2.85~3.0mmol/L) are more common among rescuers. Potassium deficiency (hypokalemia) will reduce muscle strength, make the nerves dull, and feel tired and weak; it will cause food loss, decreased food intake, bitter mouth, irritability, and even nausea, vomiting, loss of directional ability, and unconsciousness. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for altitude sickness. When blood potassium is less than 2.5 mmol/L, muscle weakness, respiratory paralysis, severe arrhythmia, and even sudden death.

　　Yushu is at a high altitude. Rescuers are faced with high altitude hypoxia, which can easily cause altitude sickness. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are the most common. These reactions lead to the massive loss of the body''s potassium-rich digestive juice. In addition, severe conditions such as high altitude hypoxia and low temperature lead to stress and aldosterone secretion increases, which in turn causes the kidneys to excrete more potassium. Low temperature also leads to increased urination (increased potassium loss); faster breathing may lead to respiratory alkalosis (potassium in the blood enters the cells). Many of the above factors are prone to cause potassium deficiency (hypokalemia).

　　 Therefore, pay attention to potassium supplementation in the diet, especially the diet of rescue workers. Fresh vegetables and fruits are the best source of potassium. Potatoes, soybeans, mushrooms, seaweed, etc. also contain more potassium.

In addition, when symptoms of altitude sickness such as weakness, fatigue, decreased appetite, palpitation, irritability, nausea, vomiting, etc., should pay attention to check the blood potassium concentration. If necessary, potassium can be supplemented in time by drugs (such as potassium chloride).