Foods That Have Lots of Potassium

Many raw fruits and vegetables contain high levels of potassium. Potassium is critical for proper functioning of nerve and muscles cells. However, some children and adults may need to monitor their potassium intake. Too much potassium in the body can be harmful, especially to people with kidney dysfunction. Other people may also suffer from hypokalemia, or low potassium levels. Low levels are often caused by diuretics, eating disorders and other conditions. Understand what foods are high in potassium to ensure you're receiving the right amounts for your health and diet.

Fruits

A variety of fruits are high in potassium including avocado, bananas, cantaloupe and oranges. Dried fruit can also be snacked on for a daily potassium fix, such as dried figs, prunes and apricot slices. Fruit juice is a rich source of potassium as well. Grapefruit, orange and prune juice rank high in potassium levels. Remember, fresh raw fruit contains higher levels of potassium. Refined foods lose some of the nutritional value. For optimal potassium levels, squeeze fresh juice from fruits and eat fruits raw for increased potassium.

Vegetables and Legumes

High potassium vegetables include potatoes and dishes such as hash browns and french fries. Beans--including butter, pinto and soy beans--are another rich source of potassium. Brussels sprouts, okra and tomatoes or tomato products also make the list. Potassium is high in vegetable and tomato juices. To remove some levels of potassium from vegetables, peel and dice the vegetable. Soak the vegetable overnight in water. Rinse the vegetable and boil for five minutes, and continue to cook until tender.

Protein and Dairy Products

All meats and fish such as salmon, cod, flounder and sardines are good sources of potassium. Shellfish, crab and even oysters are high in potassium as well. If you're a vegetarian, many soy products have high amounts of potassium. Soy sausages, hot dogs and veggie burgers are also good sources of potassium, according to The National Institutes of Health. Dairy products such as yogurt, whole milk and condensed milk all contain potassium.