Diet For Low Potassium & Salt

Potassium and salt are both essential nutrients your body needs for normal functions vital to everyday life. Potassium is involved in muscle contraction, nerve transmission between cells and the release of energy. Sodium is an electrolyte that helps maintain normal fluid and electrolyte balance. It further aids in nerve conduction and blood pressure maintenance, People with high potassium and salt levels may benefit from a healthy diet that is lower in both potassium and salt. Consult with a health professional to determine a dietary plan that suits your individual needs.

Potassium

Health experts recommend a potassium intake of approximately 4,700 mg per day. This recommendation is lowered to approximately 1,500 to 2,700 mg per day or less for people with chronic kidney disease. Low-potassium foods are considered to have less than 250 mg of potassium per serving. These foods can be eaten regularly as part of a healthy diet plan, but portion sizes should be monitored as excessive consumption could lead to increased potassium intakes.

Sodium

The average, healthy adult should take in a maximum of 2,300 mg of sodium daily, according to "Dietary Guidelines For Americans 2010." Individuals who are 51 years of age and older, have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic kidney disease or are African-American should consume no more than 1,500 mg daily. Consult a health professional to determine your individual dietary needs.

Foods Low In Potassium

A diet plan for individuals who need to keep potassium intakes low should consist of low-potassium foods as part of a varied diet. Since most foods contain potassium, the key is to select those lowest in potassium such as grains made from simple flours, including white bread and white rice in moderation; fruits such as apples, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, peaches, pears and plums; and vegetables such as asparagus, cooked cabbage and carrots, cauliflower, peas, green peppers and spinach. Protein foods that are permitted include a serving of chicken or turkey, tuna, eggs, shrimp, nuts and seeds.

Low-Sodium Foods

A low-sodium diet should restrict or greatly reduce processed and packaged foods, as these foods are high in sodium and preservatives to extend shelf life and add flavor. Read package labels carefully to determine sodium content and avoid canned soups, beans, seasoned and breaded boxed meats, candy bars, cookies and chips. Adhering to a diet that consists of unprocessed, natural foods in a fresh state is the healthiest option. Your diet plan should consist of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean chicken, turkey and fish, low-fat plain milk and yogurts as well as nuts, seeds and heart-healthy olive and canola oils in moderation. Many of these foods are similar to low-potassium foods, making a low-sodium and low-potassium diet easier to follow.