Potassium Supplements

Potassium is a mineral involved in normal kidney and heart function, muscle contraction and nerve transmission. Supplements may contain potassium chloride, citrate, phosphate, bicarbonate, aspartate or gluconate and are available alone, in multivitamin formulas and in some electrolyte products. Research has not established that one supplemental form is generally better than the others. Compare the potassium amount in the full serving and do not assume that a larger dose is suitable. Too much potassium can cause dangerously high blood levels, particularly in people with kidney disease or those taking certain blood-pressure medicines, potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium-containing salt substitutes. Potassium supplementation should therefore be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist when regular medication or an existing condition is involved.