When To Reduce Potassium In Your Diet
Most think of potassium as either a mineral to be studied in chemistry class
, or an ingredient essential to the body's health. Both are true, but potassium can also cause problems for the body if there is too much of it in the bloodstream. So monitor the amount of foods rich in potassium that are in your diet, and aim to stay within a healthy range.
Generally, the body works to keep the balance of potassium in your body for you. Eating plenty of potassium rich foods ensures you have enough of the mineral to keep your body functioning efficiently, and then the body lets out the excess potassium in urine. When this process is operating as per the norm, you will feel healthier and stronger on a daily basis. Potassium rich foods assist your heart, brain and kidney muscles, avoiding cramps and fatigue and making sure everything is working strongly and properly. That is why eating plenty of foods rich in potassium (such as bananas, kiwi, vegetable juice, tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, etc) is so important. But sometimes the body has difficulty in dealing with all the potassium. At those times, levels of potassium need to be reduced to avoid conditions such as hyperkalemia.
Those with chronic kidney disease have an especially hard time getting rid of the excess potassium in their bloodstream. Therefore, these are the people with the highest risk of contracting hyperkalemia. Usually, symptoms of hyperkalemia do not really set in until the levels of potassium are very high. At this level, dangerous complications can become a real issue. Some of these are severe muscle weakness, irregular heart rhythm, or even paralysis. As rare as these conditions may be, one ought to test his or her blood to make sure potassium levels are not too high.
If this becomes a major concern, eating fewer potassium rich foods is a must. Note the serving sizes in the nutritional facts on food products. When there are high levels of potassium in that food, eat a smaller serving to cut down on potassium intake. For most, doctors recommend eating 4700 mg of potassium per day. But those with hyperkalemia or just an excessive amount of potassium in the bloodstream, 1500 - 2700 mg will suffice. The important thing is to be knowledgeable on your body's health. Keep up to date with testing and observation, and contact your doctor if any irregularities show up. This way you will be as prepared to deal with any major health concerns.
by: Taylor Benjamin
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