Potassium works with sodium to maintain the body's water balance. One possible explanation for potassium's protective effect against hypertension is that increased potassium may increase the amount of sodium excreted from the body.
The kidneys regulate the level of potassium in the body. Potassium deficiency is not common but may result from excessive losses due to severe diarrhea, poor diabetic control, low-calorie diets (less than 800 calories per day), chronic alcoholism, hard exercise, or some diuretics and laxatives. Although their purpose is to eliminate excess sodium from the body, certain diuretics may increase potassium losses, while others retain potassium. If you take certain diuretics, you may need more or less potassium. Ask your physician about the type of diuretic drug you take and whether you require additional potassium. Some people who take diuretics may be prescribed a potassium supplement to help replace potassium loss.
Most Americans do not get enough potassium in their diets. The recommended daily potassium intake is 4.7 grams a day. Athletes involved in prolonged, hard exercise may require more potassium a day.
by J. Anderson, L. Young and E. Long |
