Quick guide to Potassium
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- water balance in the body
- muscle contraction
- acid-alkali balance
- nerve impulse transmission
- energy metabolism
- protein and carbohydrate metabolism
- a healthy heart and blood vessels
Absorption and metabolism
Potassium is well absorbed.
Deficiency
Potassium deficiency may lead to an increased risk of high blood pressure.
Sources
Foods high in potassium include fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Daily recommended dietary intakes
The estimated minimum requirement for a healthy person is 2000 mg.
Toxic effects of excess intake
Toxic effects include muscular weakness, ulcers, low blood pressure and, in high enough doses, coma and death.
Therapeutic uses of supplements
Potassium has been used to treat cases of depletion, fatigue, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and kidney stones.
Interactions
Potassium interacts with sodium, calcium, magnesium and chloride. High sugar intakes can lead to low potassium levels.
Cautions
Those with kidney disease or ulcers should not take potassium supplements.