You don't want to be deficient in potassium. On the other hand, too much of it can be toxic. In the quest for optimal health, a person who pops potassium supplements like jellybeans may suffer consequences ranging in from life threatening, such as kidney failure, to embarrassing and uncomfortable, such as diarrhea. Consult your doctor before taking potassium supplements.
Potassium's Function
Potassium is an essential mineral and an electrolyte, meaning it forms charged particles, called ions, when in solution. The concentration of potassium ions inside your cells is 30 times higher than it is in extracellular fluids, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. This high potassium ion concentration contributes to an electrochemical gradient called "membrane potential." Membrane potential is a key factor in enabling your muscles to contract and your nerves to conduct impulses.
Potassium Deficiency
If you have prolonged or severe diarrhea, you may be at increased risk for potassium deficiency, or hypokalemia. Diarrhea, vomiting, alcoholism, laxative abuse and bulimia are all risk factors for potassium deficiency, because they increase the amount of potassium lost from your body. Insufficient potassium causes changes in cell membrane potential that can lead to fatigue, weakness and intestinal paralysis. Serious cases of hypokalemia can result in potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Contrary to popular belief, sports drinks are poor potassium sources, according to Jennifer Anderson of Colorado State University Extension.
Potassium Toxicity
The tricky thing about potassium is that the side effects of taking it can sometimes mimic the conditions that caused potassium loss in the first place. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, adverse effects of potassium supplementation can include nausea and diarrhea. And the effects of potassium toxicity, or hyperkalemia, include muscle weakness and abnormal heart rhythms, similar to the effects of hypokalemia.
Considerations
Because the symptoms and effects of potassium deficiency and potassium toxicity can be quite serious, it is best to consult your doctor if you think you may have a potassium deficiency. Numerous conditions contraindicate potassium supplements, such as previous history of kidney disease or the use of certain prescription medications. Many foods, such as bananas and orange juice, are rich in potassium. The amount of potassium you can consume through dietary sources is generally safe, but you should not take potassium supplements without a doctor's supervision.
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