Potassium is essential for digestive function and other bodily processes. However, getting too much or too little potassium can have adverse digestive effects, including heartburn. If you have recently developed heartburn or believe your digestive symptoms may be associated with your potassium intake, see your doctor. Tell her about the symptoms you are experiencing, and discuss proper potassium intake and heartburn remedies.
RDA and Too Much Potassium
The recommended dietary allowance for potassium is 2,000 mg, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This mineral helps encourage smooth muscle movements, which keeps your digestive system working properly, and it also helps your body maintain its balance of acids and bases. Ingesting too much potassium can result in side effects like diarrhea, nausea and stomach irritation, which may include heartburn. It can also cause a condition called hyperkalemia, the symptoms of which include severe stomach pain, muscle weakness and a slow or abnormal pulse. Seek medical attention if you suspect you might have this condition.
Potassium Deficiency
A potassium deficiency is known as hypokalemia. Though hypokalemia can be caused by a lack of potassium in your diet, this condition typically results from losing too much of the mineral through vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating or a bowel disorder. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as diuretics. The symptoms of hypokalemia include stomach disturbances like heartburn, as well as fatigue, muscle cramps and an irregular pulse. This is a dangerous condition, so seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
Other Causes of Heartburn
Heartburn may not necessarily be associated with your potassium intake. It results when acid from your stomach backs up into your esophagus and causes a burning pain in your chest. This can be triggered by certain foods, such as alcohol, coffee, ketchup, vinegar and fatty or fried foods. Being overweight, eating large meals and smoking can all increase your risks of developing heartburn. If you are experiencing indigestion or other types of digestive upset, see your doctor about your symptoms.
Additional Considerations
Do not increase or decrease your intake of potassium without first discussing it with a licensed physician, as maintaining the right balance of this mineral in your body is imperative to your health. If you believe that your heartburn may be associated with the amount of potassium you consume, tell him your concerns. You can work together to determine the cause of your digestive upset, as well as whether or not your potassium intake needs to be altered.
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