Potassium

Potassium

What is it?

• Potassium is an essential mineral needed for cells to function.

How does it work in the body?

• Potassium has multiple functions in the body. Potassium acts as an electrolyte and balances the amount of water inside cells. Additionally, it is crucial for skeletal and smooth muscle contraction which is critical to maintaining nor-mal function of the heart, muscular and digestive systems.

What is it used for?

• One obvious use for potassium supplementation is to treat hypokalemia which could be caused by excessive losses (i.e., vomiting, diarrhea), malnutrition, or malabsorption. Other less common uses for potassium supplementation include, the prevention of osteoporosis in older women, attempt to lower blood pressure, and decrease risk of stroke.

Dosage:

• Adequate intake for adults >19 years old is 4700 mg/day.

Evidence:

• Hypertension: Hypertension has traditionally been managed with the intake of salt, however, for the best management recent research has shifted its focus to the replacement of other minerals, such as potassium. A systematic review published in 2006 looked at six randomized controlled trials. The review found that there was no significant effect on hypertension with potassium supplementation.

• Osteoporosis: A cohort study was done to assess the effects of long-term potassium ingestion on bone mineral density in elderly women. It was found that higher intakes of potassium can possibly decrease the risk of osteoporosis.

• Risk of stroke: A meta-analysis conducted in 2011 looked into ten independent prospective studies. They concluded a statistically significant decrease in risk of stroke in those that were supplemented with potassium.

Safety concerns/side effects/precautions:

• Potassium supplementation could lead to Gl upset such as diarrhea or nausea, muscle weakness, slowed or irregular heart rate. Potassium supplementation should be given to people with kidney disease

• Avoid potassium supplementation in those taking medications that can raise serum potassium such as potassium sparing diuretics, Bactrim, Septra, and ACE inhibitors.

Interactions with medications:

• Several medications increase the risk of hyperkalemia and therefore potassium supplementation should be avoided. These medications include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, potassium sparing diuretics, and indomethacin.