Rather than incur the exorbitant dermatology bill associated with treating acne, consider dietary choices as a root cause of the breakouts. Dietary alterations may or may not improve your acne, but you can limit foods and try to distinguish the ones that are provoking the pimple flare-ups. Sometimes a certain substance within foods may exacerbate or alleviate skin conditions. If you think that a low potassium level, called hypokalemia, is responsible for your skin problems, there is a way to check this out.
Step 1
Look for symptoms suggestive of low potassium levels, or hypokalemia. These symptoms vary by individual, but may include tiredness, crampy muscles and, in severe cases, irregular heartbeats.
Step 2
Talk with your doctor and request an electrolyte panel. Having this blood test is the definitive way to check your potassium level. Normal blood potassium levels range from 3.6 to 4.8 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/mL).
Step 3
Eat an array of foods rich in potassium to raise your blood levels, if needed. Fresh fruits such as bananas and oranges, dairy and lentils are excellent sources of natural potassium. Do not take a potassium supplement unless directed to do so by your doctor; too much potassium is as dangerous as too little.
Step 4
Keep a daily skin journal while you incorporate more potassium-rich foods into your diet. Record breakouts, overall complexion and skin health.
Tips and Warnings
- Although a 4.0 mEq/mL potassium level may be normal for most, that level may be adversely affecting your skin. Every person's optimum value will vary --- a normal laboratory value may be on the low end of what you require. Diuretic medications and antibiotics may affect the potassium levels in your body.
- If your potassium levels are less than 3.6 mEq/mL, you may require medical intervention, which your doctor will discuss with you.
Member Comments