Potassium

Potassium Supplement

Did you know that potassium is the third most abundant mineral in the human body and essential to the function of the heart, kidneys, brain, and muscles? potassium is crucial for just about every aspect of health. On top of being a mineral, potassium is also an important electrolyte that works in tandem with sodium to regulate fluid balance, heart rhythm, proper function of muscles and nervous system. It's easy to see why your potassium levels are so important and why taking a potassium supplement may be beneficial.

Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electric charge and ensure certain critical processes, such as regulating the amount of water in your body via the kidneys, your blood pH, as well as your muscle function. They are lost in sweat during exercise, as well as by rapid loss of fluids, such as diarrhea and vomiting. Electrolytes must be replaced to maintain healthy levels to keep your body functioning optimally.

Normal body function depends on tight regulation of potassium concentrations both inside and outside of cells. A lack of dietary potassium can increase blood pressure, cause kidney stone risk, increase bone turnover, and urinary calcium excretion. A severe potassium deficiency can cause hypokalemia. Most people consume enough potassium through diet and foods high in Potassium include; bananas, beans and legumes, avocados, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and salmon. However, certain conditions may require supplemental potassium. Stress hormones deplete potassium, as well as increase the body's need for this important mineral.

Benefits of Potassium Supplements

• Contributes to Healthy Blood Pressure
• Important Electrolyte to Regulate Fluid Balance
• Supports Optimal Heart and Nerve Function

Who Needs A Potassium Supplement?

Athletes, hard trainers, those with a very active lifestyle, as well as people with high blood pressure, kidney disease, heart conditions and hypokalemia may be advised to take a potassium supplement by their physician. Potassium supplements may also be recommended to those with a history of kidney stones, or at risk for osteoporosis or stroke.

Potassium Supplement - Potency, Forms & Formats

Potency

In Canada, potassium supplements in isolated form typically contain 99 mg of potassium, while multivitamin/mineral formulas typically supply 80 mg of potassium. While these amounts are far less than the Recommended Daily Intake (2,600 mg/day for women and 3,400 mg/day for men), potassium is widely available in foods.

Forms

Potassium is available in different supplement forms, including potassium chloride, potassium gluconate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium aspartate, and potassium orotate.

Potassium citrate, chelate, and bisglycinate forms offer enhanced digestion and optimal absorption.

Formats

Potassium supplements are available in capsules, tablets, as well as liquids. The liquid forms (as potassium chloride) are absorbed quickly, while enteric-coated tablet forms are absorbed more slowly. Potassium is also available in electrolyte blends along with the other electrolytes including; sodium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, chloride, and bicarbonate.

Choosing The Right Supplement

Elevated potassium concentration, hyperkalemia, occurs when potassium intake exceeds the capacity of the kidneys to eliminate it. Because of the potential for serious side effects, speak to your health care practitioner before deciding to use a potassium supplement.