Potassium chloride is taken as a supplement if your body lacks potassium, a mineral that is a crucial electrolyte to help your body's electrical system function properly. A deficiency in potassium is typically caused by alcoholism, extreme vomiting, using a diuretic to remove water from the body, laxative abuse and some kinds of kidney diseases and metabolic disorders, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University.
Build Muscle & Regulate Growth
Potassium helps your body build muscle and have a normal rate of growth, according to National Institutes of Health website Medline Plus. Taking potassium chloride supplements if you have a shortage of potassium will help you avoid weak muscles. Without enough potassium in the body, a wide range of symptoms can occur. The symptoms include constipation, tiredness, muscle weakness and destruction of muscle fibers, an irregular heart rhythm, paralysis of the lungs and other areas of the body and spasms of the muscles.
Healthy Blood Pressure
A lack of potassium in the body can also make it more difficult to maintain a healthy blood pressure level. If you are diagnosed with a low potassium level, it is beneficial to talk to your doctor about potassium chloride supplements to work to keep blood pressure within normal values. High blood pressure is linked to a wide range of serious disorders, such as stroke and heart disease.
Maintaining Adequate Potassium
Taking potassium chloride supplements prescribed by a doctor will help your body regain an adequate supply of potassium. Eating foods rich in potassium, such as prunes, bananas, raisins, red meat, spinach and almonds, will also help your body maintain a healthy level of potassium.
Side Effects of Potassium Chloride
The intake of potassium chloride supplements can cause serious side effects. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience an abnormal heartbeat with a feeling that the heart is racing, pounding or has an irregular beat. Other problematic symptoms of potassium chloride include problems breathing, mental confusion, weakness, numb feet or hands, and strong stomach pain or vomiting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
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