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Can I Offset High Sodium Levels With Potassium?

Jun 27, 2011 | By Nancy Clarke

With nearly one in three Americans a victim of high blood pressure, or hypertension, you may be concerned about high sodium intake, a significant risk factor for this condition. Along with potassium, the sodium that you get from your diet affects the fluid balance in your body, with a direct bearing on your blood pressure. You need different intakes of these two minerals to achieve the homeostasis that keeps blood pressure levels normal. Wise food choices will supply the right amounts.

Sodium Action

Most Americans get more than 50 percent more dietary sodium every day than the 2,300 mg recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a healthy metabolism. People who already have hypertension should limit their intake to less than 1,500 mg per day. These levels of sodium must be balanced by larger proportions of potassium to achieve the proper fluid distribution between the inside and outside of body cells and the bloodstream. Too much sodium absorbed by the body during digestion causes more fluid to enter the blood in an effort to dilute sodium levels. A greater volume of blood requires greater exertion by the heart and imparts greater pressure on the blood vessel walls.

Potassium Requirements

Although potassium offsets the action of sodium in the body, the ratio of potassium to sodium must be greater and within a specific range. The USDA recommends an adult intake of 4,700 mg of potassium daily. Simply increasing your potassium levels to maintain excessive sodium levels won't negate the detrimental effects of high sodium. Several long-range research studies, including the 2009 Trials of Hypertension Prevention and 2001 Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, found health benefits of increased potassium only in concert with controlled sodium intakes.

Dietary Choices

Fluid imbalances brought about by improper intakes of these minerals can lead to chronic high blood pressure. To avoid this condition, use food labels to choose foods with less sodium and more potassium. Most of the salt you consume is added to commercially prepared foods. Choose fresh or frozen meats and fish most often, which, along with dairy products, are sources of potassium. The American Heart Association recommends eating more fresh fruits and vegetables or those processed without salt to naturally gain more potassium and cut your sodium intake.

Significance

Hypertension can lead to many complications, including kidney failure and heart disease. Damage to the kidneys, heart and blood vessels may prompt fatal end-stage renal disease, heart attacks and strokes. Controlling your blood pressure before you have a serious medical emergency can help you avoid these complications.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Jun 27, 2011

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