Potassium Supplements

Understanding Potassium

What is Potassium?

Potassium is a mineral and electrolyte that is important for nerve transmission, muscle contraction, fluid balance, and various other body functions[1]. Along with sodium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium, potassium helps regulate critical bodily processes like your heartbeat and muscle movements.

The body contains a total of about 150 grams of potassium. Of this, 98% is found inside cells, while the remaining 2% is found outside cells in blood and other fluids[1].

Recommended Daily Intake of Potassium

The recommended dietary intake (RDI) for potassium is set at different levels based on your age and gender according to the Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand:

Age/Gender	Potassium RDI
Infants 0-6 months	400 mg/day
Infants 7-12 months	700 mg/day
Children 1-3 years	2,000 mg/day
Children 4-8 years	2,300 mg/day
Boys 9-13 years	3,000 mg/day
Boys 14-18 years	3,600 mg/day
Girls 9-13 years	2,500 mg/day
Girls 14-18 years	2,600 mg/day
Men 19-30 years	3,800 mg/day
Men 31-50 years	3,800 mg/day
Men 51-70 years	3,800 mg/day
Men over 70 years	3,800 mg/day
Women 19-30 years	2,800 mg/day
Women 31-50 years	2,800 mg/day
Women 51-70 years	2,800 mg/day
Women over 70 years	2,800 mg/day
Pregnant women	2,800 mg/day
Lactating women	3,200 mg/day

Health Benefits of Potassium Supplements

Some research indicates potassium supplements may provide benefits for heart and bone health:

Heart health: Higher potassium intake is associated with lower blood pressure and decreased risk of stroke. Potassium supplements may help reduce blood pressure, particularly in people with hypertension.
Bone health: Getting adequate potassium may reduce calcium loss from bones. This could help maintain bone mineral density and reduce the negative effects associated with osteoporosis.

However, the evidence is not fully conclusive. More research is needed on the specific health benefits of potassium supplementation.

How Potassium Supplements Help with Deficiencies

Taking potassium supplements can also help correct or prevent deficiencies. Potassium deficiency is uncommon, but it can occur due to:

Inadequate dietary intake
Certain medications like diuretics, laxatives, or steroids
Medical conditions like hyperaldosteronism, severe burns, celiac disease, vomiting, or diarrhea

Symptoms of mild deficiency include constipation, nausea, muscle cramps, and fatigue. Severe deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, breathing problems, and heart rhythm disorders.

Potassium supplements may help replenish potassium stores and relieve deficiency symptoms. However, it’s best to correct any underlying medical issues.

Types of Potassium Supplements

Potassium supplements are available in several forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids.

Overview of Potassium Tablets

Potassium tablets provide a measured dose of potassium in a convenient tablet form. They are one of the most common types of potassium supplements.

Potassium tablets are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations:

Immediate release tablets dissolve quickly to provide potassium fast.
Extended release tablets dissolve slowly over time to provide prolonged effects.

Potassium chloride is the most widely used salt form in potassium tablets. Other less common forms include potassium bicarbonate, potassium citrate, potassium gluconate, and potassium orotate.

Different Forms of Potassium Supplements

In addition to tablets, potassium supplements come in several other forms:

Capsules: Provide potassium encased in a gelatin shell. Help mask any unpleasant taste from the potassium salts.
Powders: Contain potassium dissolved into a powdered drink mix. Allow precise dosing and easy mixing into beverages.
Liquids: Supply potassium dissolved in a liquid solution. Offer flexibility in dosing. Liquids like potassium chloride oral solution may have an unpleasant taste.
Lozenges: Dissolvable tablets that provide potassium as they dissolve slowly in the mouth. Help increase low potassium levels rapidly.

Choosing the Right Potassium Supplement

Consider the following when selecting a potassium supplement:

Form: Choose tablets, capsules, powders, or liquids based on your preferences. Tablets offer standardized doses, while powders allow flexibility in dosing.
Dose: Potassium supplements are available in doses ranging from 8 mg to 750 mg per tablet/capsule. Choose an appropriate dose based on your needs and doctor’s recommendation.
Salt type: Potassium chloride has the highest potassium content. Potassium citrate may be preferable for kidney stone prevention.
Quality: Select reputable brands that adhere to quality supplement manufacturing standards.
Cost: Generic potassium supplements tend to be cheaper than name brands. Compare prices between products.
Safety: Do not exceed the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for potassium, which is 3,700 mg per day for adults.

Taking Potassium Supplements

It’s important to take potassium supplements correctly:

The dosage of supplemental potassium depends on your individual needs and health status. Adults generally require 2,000-4,700 mg of potassium per day from all sources.

Doses for potassium deficiency treatment are typically in the range of 20-40 mEq (780-1560 mg) per day, but can vary based on blood levels and medical oversight.

Excessive doses can cause dangerous side effects. Do not exceed 3,700 mg potassium per day from supplements without medical supervision.

When and How to Take Potassium Tablets

Most potassium tablets are taken by mouth 1-3 times per day. Follow the dosage directions on your specific supplement. Taking potassium with food may help reduce potential side effects.

Potassium chloride tablets are commonly taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Extended release tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.

Spread out your dosage throughout the day rather than taking it all at once. Taking potassium supplements close to bedtime may help prevent nighttime muscle cramps.

Potential Side Effects of Potassium Supplements

When taken as directed, potassium supplements are generally well tolerated. However, possible side effects can include:

Stomach irritation, ulcers, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Gastrointestinal discomfort or pain
Tingling sensations or burning feeling in the hands and feet
Rash or itching
Fatigue
Breathing problems
Abnormal heart rhythms

Very high doses can lead to dangerously high potassium levels called hyperkalemia. Seek medical attention if you experience severe side effects from potassium supplements.

Certain groups should use caution with potassium supplements:

People with kidney disorders
Individuals taking medications like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or NSAIDs
Those with gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding

Alternatives to Potassium Supplements

For those looking to avoid supplements, potassium can also be obtained through dietary sources:

When to Consider Potassium Supplements

In some cases, potassium supplements may be helpful:

If you have very low dietary potassium intake
To treat a potassium deficiency
If you take medications like diuretics that deplete potassium
To help reduce high blood pressure or prevent kidney stones
If you have a medical condition that increases potassium needs

However, unnecessary supplementation carries risks. Only use potassium supplements if recommended by your healthcare provider and follow dosing instructions carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to take potassium supplements?

Potassium supplements are generally safe when taken as directed, but can cause side effects at excessively high doses. Do not exceed the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of 3,700 mg per day for adults. People with kidney disorders, on certain medications, or with gastrointestinal issues should use caution with potassium supplements.
Can potassium supplements interact with medications?

Yes. Potassium can potentially interact with medications including ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDs, and diuretics. Very high potassium levels can be dangerous for those taking these drugs. Speak to your doctor before supplementing.
How much potassium should you get per day?

Adults generally need 2,800-3,800 mg of potassium per day from food and supplements combined, depending on age and gender. Do not exceed the upper limit of 3,700 mg from supplements alone.
What are symptoms of low potassium?

Mild potassium deficiency can cause fatigue, muscle cramps, constipation, and nausea. Severe deficiency may result in muscle weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, and breathing problems. Consult your doctor if you think you may be potassium deficient.
Who should not take potassium supplements?

People with kidney disorders, on certain medications, or with gastrointestinal issues should use caution with potassium supplements. Very high doses can be unsafe for these groups. Do not supplement without medical supervision.
Can you overdose on potassium supplements?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on potassium supplements, especially at doses exceeding 3,700 mg per day. Signs of potassium overdose include tingling, burning sensations, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abnormal heart rhythms. Seek emergency care for severe symptoms.
What is the difference between potassium chloride and potassium citrate?

Potassium chloride contains more elemental potassium per dose, while potassium citrate may be better for kidney stone prevention. Check with your healthcare provider for the best form for your needs.