Potassium

Function of Potassium:
Potassium maintains fluid and electrolyte balance, and helps the kidneys to function
normally. It also plays an important role in cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle
contraction. Therefore, it's an important nutrient for normal heart, digestive, and
muscular function.

Deficiency of Potassium:
There are several conditions that can lead to potassium deficiency including:
excessive use of sodium, diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating, malnutrition, use of
diuretics, drinking coffee and alcohol on a regular basis, magnesium deficiency. The
elderly are at risk of potassium deficiency because of the decreased kidney function
that often occurs as one ages.

Note: A variety of medical conditions can lead to the symptoms mentioned above. Therefore, it is
important to have a physician evaluate them so that appropriate medical care can be given.

Toxicity (Potassium Overdose):
Taking high doses of potassium causes diarrhea, nausea, muscle weakness, slowed
heart rate, and abnormal heart rhythm. Having too much potassium in the blood is
called hyperkalemia, and individuals who have this condition should not use potassium
supplements.

Caution: Eating natural foods that are high in potassium is the safest and healthiest
way to get an adequate supply of the nutrient. Due to risk of toxicity, individuals
should always consult with a knowledgeable health care provider before starting
doses of supplements. Before giving supplements to children, it is recommended that
you first consult with their pediatrician. Also, some supplements may interfere with
medications. If you are taking medication, it is recommended that you consult with
your physician before taking any supplements. All supplements should be kept in
childproof bottles and out of children's reach.

Potassium Food Chart (List of Foods High in Potassium):

Potato, baked, with skin, 1 medium - (926 mg)
Plums, dried (prunes), 1/2 cup - (637 mg)
Raisins 1/2 cup - (598 mg)
Prune juice 6 fluid ounces - (528 mg)
Lima beans, cooked, 1/2 cup - (485 mg)
Acorn squash, cooked, 1/2 cup - (448 mg)
Banana 1 medium - (422 mg)
Spinach, cooked, 1/2 cup - (420 mg)
Tomato juice 6 fluid ounces - (417 mg)
Orange juice 6 fluid ounces - (372 mg)
Raisin bran cereal 1 cup - (362 mg)
Artichoke, cooked, 1 medium - (343 mg)
Molasses 1 tablespoon - (293 mg)
Tomato 1 medium - (292 mg)
Sunflower seeds 1 ounce - (241 mg)
Orange 1 medium - (237 mg)
Almonds 1 ounce - (200 mg)

Sources:

American Dietetic Association: Complete Food And Nutrition Guide (2nd Edition)
Roberta Larson Duyff, MS, RD, FADA, CFCS

Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and More
Pamela Wartian Smith, MD, MPH

University of Maryland Medical Center - umm.edu

Linus Pauling Institute - oregonstate.edu

Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia

Eating foods that are high in
potassium can help to prevent
conditions such as strokes,
osteoporosis, hypertension, and
kidney stones. Foods high in
potassium include: bananas,
baked potato with skin, plums,
prunes, raisins, lima beans,
spinach, and tomato juice.

What is Potassium?
Potassium, also known as an
electrolyte, is an essential
mineral in human nutrition.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.