Potassium
Topics covered:
- What is potassium?
- What does potassium do for us?
- What types of foods contain potassiun ?
- What is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)?
- Are there health risks associated with potassium?
- References
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Potassium is an essential micronutrient (macro-mineral).
What does potassium do for us?
Potassium acts as an electrolyte inside the body and controls the body fluids inside our cells. Further, potassium is needed for metabolic processes, helps balance our pH (acid-base) levels in our bloodstream, and regulates many muscle and organ functions. Potassium may also lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney stones.
What types of foods contain potassium?
Potassium can naturally be found in foods such as lean meats, poultry, eggs, dairy products, fruits (especially bananas), whole-grains, legumes, dairy products, fish, herbs, and vegetables.
What is the minimum Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)?
Ages 0-6 months: 400 mg
Ages 7-12 months: 700 mg
Ages 1-3 years: 3,000 mg
Ages 4-8 years: 3,800 mg
Ages 9-13 years: 4,500 mg
Ages 14+ years*: 4,700 mg
*If you are pregnant or breast feeding, consult with a dietitian for your RDA.
Are there health risks associated with potassium?
Potassium deficiency leads to hypokalemia (low blood levels), fatigue, abnormal breathing, and muscle paralysis.
- Boyle, Marie A., and Sara Long. Personal Nutrition, Seventh Edition California, Wadsworth College Learning, 2010.
- “Minerals.” U.S. National Library of Medicine. March 9, 2009. Retrieved May 31, 2011 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus>
- “Potassium.” American Cancer Society. October 21, 2010. Retrieved April 15, 2011. <http://www.cancer.org>
- Zieve, David MD. “Potassium in Diet.” U.S. National Library of Medicine. May 6, 2010. Retrieved May 31, 2011 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus>
- “Potassium.” Health Supplements Nutritional Guide. 2008. Retrieved April 15, 2011 <http://www.healthsupplementsnutritionalguide.com>
- Griffin, Morgan R. “Potassium.” WebMD. David C Leopold, MD. December 9, 2010. Retrieved April 21, 2011 <http://www.WebMD.com>
Disclaimer
Reasonable care has been taken in preparing this document, and the information provided herein is believed to be accurate. However, this information is not intended to constitute an “authoritative statement” under Food and Drug Administration rules and regulations.
General Safety Advisory
This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is important to seek the advice of a physician about any medical condition or symptom. It is also important to seek the advice of a physician, registered dietitian, pharmacist, or other qualified health professional about the appropriateness of taking dietary supplements and their potential interactions with medications.