Can potassium supplements replace dietary sources?

Although potassium nutritional supplements seem convenient, they come with significant risks. They deliver concentrated medication doses to the body, which can tend to overwhelm the body. The nutrients in foods are all balanced, with optimal cofactors that enhance absorption rates. It is for this reason that I always recommend the food sources first for safe potassium intake.

There are only a few cases where supplementation becomes necessary. Only individuals whose serum tests indicate an absolute need for supplementation should be given supplements temporarily. There are certain diseases, such as Crohn's disease, where food absorption is impaired; in these cases, a supplement to address the deficiency becomes necessary. The dosage limit should be the smallest possible, with medical observation.

Whole foods naturally include safeguards. The bound fiber delays the release of potassium and helps protect against large shifts in potassium levels. The natural water content is also a diluting factor for mineral concentration. Phytonutrients help to facilitate uptake within cells. As a result of all these factors, it is challenging to exceed a safe dose using food sources alone.

Be careful when supplementing your potassium: get weekly blood tests in the beginning. Be aware of any yellow flags you may show such as muscle weakness. Keep emergency numbers accessible. I cared for a patient whose potassium levels went from normal range to 3-times (300%) greater only a few days from the time she started taking potassium supplements.

When planning meals, consider high-potassium foods. For every meal, aim for three servings of fruit or vegetables. Between meals, snack on nuts and seeds. These methods boost levels reliably without the hazards of pills. The absorption of nutrients in a more pure form by the body is best accomplished through whole food matrices.

Read the full article: Sodium Potassium Balance: Essential Health Guide