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Since too much potassium can complicate an existing condition, you should only take potassium supplements under the guidance of a doctor
You can take potassium supplements every day if your doctor has advised you to do so.
However, since too much potassium can cause health issues or complicate an existing condition, you should only take potassium supplements under the guidance of a doctor.
What happens if you have too much potassium?
At higher doses, potassium supplements can cause dangerous side effects such as:
- Muscle weakness
- Irregular heartbeats
- Confusion
- Tingling sensation
- Low blood pressure
- Upset stomach
- Coma
What conditions can result from potassium deficiency?
Potassium is an important mineral that plays a significant role in various processes, including the functioning of heart and muscle movements. Potassium deficiency can cause health problems such as:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Pounding heartbeat
- Muscle cramps
- Difficulty breathing
- Mood changes
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Arthritis
- Digestive issues
When do you need potassium supplements?
Generally speaking, you can get enough potassium from a healthy balanced diet. However, if you aren’t getting enough potassium from your diet or your potassium levels are low due to illness or treatment, you may require potassium supplements.
Potassium deficiency can be seen in the following conditions:
- Use of diuretics (water pills)
- Heavy physical exercises
- Jobs that require heavy physical work
- Health conditions affecting nutrient absorption such as Crohn's disease
- Smoking
- Eating disorder
Potassium supplements are available in many forms:
- Effervescent tablets
- Extended-release tablets
- Capsule
- Powder
- Solutions
- Injectable potassium
What are good food sources of potassium?
Good food sources of potassium include:
- Bananas
- Avocados
- Peanuts
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Citrus fruits such as oranges and limes
- Leafy green vegetables
- Milk
- Potatoes
What precautions should you take with potassium supplements?
When taking potassium supplements, keep the following things in mind:
- Allergy: Let your doctor know if you have any allergies. Sometimes, potassium supplements can cause allergic reactions.
- Risk of hyperkalemia (increased blood potassium levels): Since few studies have been conducted on older people, there is no specific information about side effects of potassium supplements in the elderly compared with other age groups. Older people may have a higher risk of hyperkalemia than others; thus, they may need regular monitoring of serum potassium levels.
- Drug interaction: Dietary supplements are not recommended with some medications due to the risk of side effects. These medications include:
- Atropine
- Biperiden
- Dicyclomine
- Other medications: Certain medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can increase your serum potassium levels. Taking potassium supplements with these medications can increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
How to take potassium supplements
Take potassium supplements with food or immediately after meals to avoid an upset stomach:
- Liquid form: Diluted with cold water or juice to reduce stomach irritation.
- Soluble granule, soluble powder, or soluble tablet: Completely dissolve in cold water or juice and consume after the fizzing stops.
- Extended-release tablet or capsule: Swallow the whole tablet or capsule with water. Do not chew or suck on the tablet or capsule. If you have trouble swallowing, consult your doctor regarding your options.
