Required to maintain fl uid balance; required for nerve conduction and muscle function; cofactor for enzymes involved in energy production and carbohydrate metabolism.
Used for prevention of stroke, osteoporosis, kidney stones, and in the treatment of high blood pressure.
Defi ciency (hypokalemia) is common and caused by prolonged diarrhea or vomiting, alcoholism, kidney failure, laxative abuse, anorexia, or magnesium defi ciency.
Defi ciency symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness and cramps, bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain. Severe hypokalemia may result in muscular paralysis or abnormal heart rhythms.
Drugs that deplete: furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, corticosteroids, pseudoephedrine, caffeine, and high-dose penicillin.
Drugs that enhance potassium (may cause hyperkalemia): Spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride, ACE-inhibitors, anti-infl ammatory drugs (ibuprofen), heaparin, digoxin, and beta-blockers.
The average dietary potassium intake is about 2,300 mg/day for women and 3,100 mg/day for men. Evidence suggests that diets supplying at least 4,700 mg per day are associated with a decreased risk of stroke, hypertension, osteoporosis, and kidney stones, and this is the AI level set by the Institute of Medicine.
Multivitamin/mineral complexes typically provide 99 mg of potassium per serving. Depending on dietary intake and personal risk factors, additional potassium supplements may be necessary for some people.
Take supplements with meals or choose a microencapsulated form to reduce the risk of upset stomach.