High potassium levels, or hyperkalemia, can occur due to a high intake of potassium supplements or illnesses like kidney failure, whereby the kidneys are not excreting enough potassium. This can be dangerous, since this mineral helps regulate the heartbeat. Some individuals may need to minimize their potassium intakes; there are numerous ways to do this. Before altering your potassium intake, consult your doctor to see if this is safe or appropriate. Potassium is necessary for healthy body functioning, and if you have too much or too little, serious health effects can occur.
Step 1
Find a multivitamin with very low potassium levels or without potassium to avoid consuming unnecessary amounts of this mineral. If you are deficient in certain minerals or vitamins, you may want to take singular supplements to ensure you will not consume excess potassium.
Step 2
Minimize your intake of foods rich in potassium. Foods rich in this mineral include bananas, citrus juices, lima beans, flounder, chicken, salmon and cod, avocados and potatoes. Ask your doctor or nutritionist if there are any other specific foods you should limit or avoid.
Step 3
Look at the medications you are taking. Certain drugs can increase potassium levels in your body, including non-prescription drugs like ibuprofen. Other medications that can raise potassium levels include anticoagulant drugs, high blood pressure medications, ACE inhibitors and other medications. Talk with your doctor about all the supplements and drugs you are taking to determine whether they have an impact on your potassium intake.
Tips and Warnings
- The Linus Pauling Institute recommends consuming at least 4.7 g of potassium daily to lower your risk of stroke and high blood pressure. Talk with your doctor to see if this amount of potassium is safe for you, and do not lower it further unless advised to do so.
- Before taking steps to lower your potassium intake, talk with your doctor. Very low levels of potassium can be dangerous. Only lower your potassium levels under the supervision of your doctor to avoid any adverse health effects.
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