Finding Answers To The Potassium Riddle: How Much 'K' Do We Really Need?

Oct 30, 2018

We typically don't think about how important potassium is for our day-to-day bodily functions, but it's more important than you would think. Too little potassium can cause various health issues, as does too much.

Here, we will go over this particular mineral, what it does, and how much should be in your diet.

According to U.S. National Library of Medicine, Potassium fuels many bodily functions, such as body growth, protein- and muscle-building, carbohydrate breakdown, and heart regulation. In fact, according to American Heart Association, potassium is highly important in regulating blood flow and blood pressure.

According to American Heart Association, if your diet contains too much sodium, your blood pressure will likely increase (as will your risk of heart disease). Thankfully, potassium can counteract salt's effects on the body. According to the Food and Nutrition Board, adults should consume at least 4,700 milligrams of potassium daily to reduce salt's harmful effects, as well as reduce the risk of bone loss and kidney disease.

Luckily, your diet may already be supplying you with enough of your daily potassium needs without knowing it. Regardless, it's good to know how much you're getting, as with any mineral.

According To Office Of Disease Prevention And Health Promotion, good potassium sources include fish, potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and bananas. You can also get potassium from drinks like carrot juice, orange juice, and even chocolate milk.

Sadly, Americans normally don't get as much potassium as they should. In fact, according to the Food and Nutrition Board, most women in the US between 31 and 50 consume less than half the 4,700 milligrams they should be taking it. 

There isn't really a limit as to how much potassium you can take in, but according to U.S. National Library of Medicine, those with kidney disease must be careful. People with kidney problems are typically unable remove potassium from their blood at a proper rate, and must be cautious with their intake.

If you're not sure if you're getting the proper amount of potassium as you should be, your doctor can run some tests to evaluate your potassium status and figure out how to adjust your intake.

Did you find this information helpful? Then feel free to spread the word so that others can pay attention to how much potassium they're getting. Also, don't forget to tell us your thoughts in the comments!

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation by your doctor. Your health is important to us!