Taking too much potassium in the blood is called hyperkalemia, which too little is known as hypokalemia. Maintaining the proper balance of potassium in the body depends on the amount of sodium and magnesium levels. Too much sodium – often in Western diets, which use large quantities of salt – it may need to increase potassium. Diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating, malnutrition, malabsorption syndromes (eg Crohn’s disease), may also lead to potassium deficiency, and use the second drug in the middle of a line diuretic.
Most people think that everything they need potassium diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Older people have a higher risk of hyperkalemia, because our kidneys are less efficient in removing potassium, as we age. Older people should be careful when taking medications that may affect potassium levels, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and ACE inhibitors (see section on interactions).
Whatever your age, consult your doctor before taking potassium supplements.
Bone health
At least one study shows a positive association between diet rich in calcium and bone health. Additional studies to determine whether a diet rich in potassium can bone turnover in humans to reduce.
Hypokalemia
The main use of potassium-sparing treat the symptoms of hypokalemia (low potassium), that weakness, lack of energy, muscle cramps, upset stomach, irregular heartbeat, and abnormal ECG (electrocardiogram, a test that measures heart function included). Hypokalemia is usually caused by the body loses too much potassium in the urine or the gut, it is rarely due to lack of potassium in the diet. Hypokalaemia can be life threatening and should always be treated by a doctor.
High blood pressure
Some studies have linked low levels of potassium in the diet with high blood pressure. And there is some evidence that potassium may lead to slightly lower blood pressure. But not all studies agree – two large studies found no effect on blood pressure. It is possible that potassium helps lower blood pressure if you had enough of this mineral to start. Before taking a potassium supplement or to treat high blood pressure, consult your doctor.
Stroke
People much potassium in their diet have a lower risk of stroke. However, potassium does not appear to have the same advantage.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
People with IBD (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease) often have difficulty absorbing nutrients from the intestine and a low level of potassium and other important nutrients. If you have IBD, your doctor may monitor and recommend a potassium supplement.