Your potassium needs may change as you get older. Some older individuals experience a drop in blood potassium levels and may require supplementation. Others may develop abnormally high potassium levels, due to underlying conditions that impair the removal of potassium from the body. Your doctor can determine your potassium levels by a simple blood test. Ask your doctor how to adapt your diet and lifestyle to maintain a healthy balance of this essential mineral.
Potassium Amounts
A normal blood potassium level is 3.6 to 4.8 milliequivalents per liter. A blood potassium concentration of less than 3.5 mmol/L is classified as hypokalemia. This is a serious condition that may result in cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness and glucose intolerance. Low potassium should be treated by a doctor.
Potassium And Aging
Elderly individuals are at an increased risk of abnormal potassium levels. One reason is that kidney function becomes less efficient as we age. The kidneys remove excess fluid and metabolites form the blood and maintain proper electrolyte balance. Medications such as diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers are frequently prescribed to older patients, and these may affect potassium balance. Other chronic conditions, such as diabetes, chronic renal insufficiency, end-stage renal disease, severe heart failure and adrenal insufficiency, also affect potassium levels. These conditions occur at higher rates in elderly patients.
Potassium Sources
Most healthy individuals can receive all the potassium they need from a balanced diet. Foods high in potassium include bananas, citrus juices, avocados, cantaloupes, tomatoes, potatoes, lima beans, flounder, salmon, cod, chicken and other meats. Fish, including salmon, cod and flounder, as well as dairy foods are also good sources. A diet that is high in sodium, common in the Western Hemisphere, may increase your potassium requirements.
Potassium Supplements
For individuals with blood low potassium, oral supplements may be necessary. You should not take potassium supplements unless directed to do so by your doctor. Supplements may interact with a variety of medications and may cause adverse side effects. Make sure your doctor is aware of all other prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs or supplements that you take on a regular basis. If your doctor recommends a supplement, your potassium levels should be monitored periodically to ensure that they respond appropriately and do not become elevated.
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