Electrolyte levels in the body fluctuate with hydration. Potassium, carbonate, sodium, calcium and magnesium are the main electrolytes in the blood, and improper balances of any one of them can cause serious health problems. For example, a hyperkalemia, or high potassium, can cause a reduction in insulin production leading to fatigue, confusion and dizziness. Extremely low levels of potassium in the blood can lead to arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm. Doctors treat hypokalemia with potassium supplements and a diet of foods and beverages rich in potassium.
Juices
Apple, grape and orange juice, though healthy, are potassium-rich drinks that you should avoid if hyperkalemia is a problem for you. They contain 148, 167 and 248 mg, respectively, per half-cup serving. The U.S. Department of Agriculture states that 4,700 mg of potassium per day is adequate for male adults and 4.500 mg per day meets the needs of female adults. Many potassium-rich foods, however, satisfy this requirement so hyperkalemic patients should drink high-potassium beverages with caution.
Milk
Liquid milk contains even more potassium than juice. An 8-ounce serving of whole milk delivers 370 mg of potassium, while an equal amount of 1 percent milk has 390 mg. Fat-free milk is the highest at 410 mg of potassium per 8-ounce glass.
Supplement Shakes
Energy shake powders or daily supplement drink mixes are packed with nutrients including vitamins and minerals. They often contain moderate to high levels of potassium as a supplement, but when they are combined with milk, the total mg of potassium can exceed 500 and even approach 600 in some cases. Always check the labels of such drinks if you are concerned about your potassium intake. Even a chocolate milkshake that is not fortified with extra vitamins and minerals can raise your potassium level. A 10-ounce thick chocolate milk shake contains 672 mg of potassium.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks don't contain high levels of electrolytes, contrary to somewhat widespread belief. In fact, hypertonic sports drinks, or those that are meant to replace carbohydrates in endurance athletes, contain no potassium. They are purely carbohydrates and fluid. Isotonic and hypotonic sports drinks both contain fluid, carbohydrates and some electrolytes, but hypotonic drinks are lower in carbohydrates. An 8-ounce serving of an isotonic beverage like Gatorade, for example, contains only 25 mg of potassium.
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