Many people do not consume as much potassium as they should, according to the Institute of Medicine, and since most people do not regularly consume excessive amounts of potassium they did not set an upper intake level. However, consuming excessive potassium can cause toxicity and a condition called hyperkalemia.
Benefits from Supplements
Potassium supplements can help you meet your daily potassium needs and may help to lower your risk for stroke, kidney stones and osteoporosis. Potassium may also help treat high blood pressure, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. However, you should check with a doctor before taking these supplements since they can interact with certain medications and aren't recommended for everyone.
Possible Side Effects
Potassium supplements can cause abdominal discomfort, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Some people may develop ulcers. Taking potassium supplements along with certain medications, including alpha blockers, beta blockers, heparin, digitalis, angiotensin receptor blockers, NSAIDs, anti-infective agents, ACE inhibitors and potassium sparing agents can increase your risk for hyperkalemia.
Hyperkalemia
If the levels of potassium in your blood are too high, you have hyperkalemia. Although many people do not experience symptoms with hyperkalemia, possible symptoms include difficulty breathing, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, nausea, paralysis, vomiting, numbness, tingling and weakness. Some people are at higher risk for hyperkalemia than others.
Causes of Hyperkalemia
People rarely get hyperkalemia if their kidneys are functioning properly, since the kidneys are usually efficient at removing excess potassium. Addison's disease, kidney problems, gastrointestinal bleeding, excess acid in the blood due to diabetes, trauma and a diet too high in potassium can increase your risk for hyperkalemia.
References
- Linus Pauling Institute: Potassium; Jane Higdon, Ph.D., et al.; December 2010
- Institute of Medicine: Dietary Reference Intakes: Water, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Sulfate; Feb. 11, 2004
- American Cancer Institute; Potassium; Oct. 21, 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperkalemia; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; Feb. 4, 2010
- MedlinePlus; Hyperkalemia; Dr. David C. Dugdale, III, et al.; Nov. 15, 2009
Member Comments