Potassium supplementation
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 03 2009
Q: I have been following the DASH diet. I’m finding it impossible to reach the K goal of 4.5 to 6.5 gm. especially limiting calories to 1200-1600 daily. Any suggestions? I’m eating foods listed highest in K daily. Would K supplements be recommended? What dosage?
A: Adequate potassium intake is felt to have a positive effect on blood pressure. Potassium supplements can be found in most grocery stores. Ask your doctor for a recommendation as there is no official guideline on supplementation.
Tags: blood pressure, Diet & Exercise, potassium, potassium supplement, potassium supplementation, Supplements, SupplementsACE inhibitor and kidney function
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Sep 23 2009
Q: I just had my blood screening and my potassium is 5.2 mmol/l. It exceeds the normal range 3.5-5.0 mmol/l. My doctor prescribed Perindopril Erbumine 4 mg/per day for me. Does the increased potassium in my blood affect my kidneys?
A: The drug you are on is used to treat high blood pressure. It is in the category known as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. The drug can cause an increase in blood potassium levels and hurt the kidneys. Since your doctor is checking your blood levels, it is likely your kidney function is being closely monitored. You should discuss this further with your doctor.
Tags: ace inhibitor, angiotensin converting enzyme, blood potassium levels, high blood pressure, kidney function, kidneys, perindopril, Perindopril Erbumine, potassium, Taking BP MedsHydrochlorothiazide and heartbeat irregularities
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Mar 17 2009
Q: What causes hydrochlorothiazide to sometimes cause heartbeat irregularities or a rapid pulse rate? I stopped that medicine because it scared me.
A: Thiazide diuretics can lower the amount of the chemical potassium in your body. This can lead to an irregular heartbeat. For this reason, many people on hydrochlorothiazide, or similar drugs, are advised to eat a banana every day or take a potassium supplement. You should let your doctor know you are having problems.
Tags: heartbeat irregularities, hydrochlorothiazide, irregular heartbeat, potassium, potassium supplement, rapid pulse, Taking BP Meds, thiazide diureticsRisks taking potassium supplements with Diovan
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jan 11 2009
Q: I have recently been prescribed Diovan for my high blood pressure. I read on the internet that one should not take a Potassium supplement with this drug. I have been taking a Potassium supplement after breakfast because I suffer cramps in my feet. Can I continue doing this or is there a reason I shouldn’t?
A: Supplementation with potassium is usually not recommended when taking Diovan because actions of this drug may cause an increase in blood levels of potassium. Too much potassium can make the heart stop beating. You should talk to your doctor about your foot cramps.
Tags: Add new tag, cramps, Diovan, Medication Interactions, potassium, supplement, SupplementsBenefits of coconut water
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 22 2008
Q: What are the health benefits of coconut water?
A: Coconut water is a good source of potassium. Low potassium intake may be a risk factor for getting high blood pressure. In addition, some studies have shown that potassium supplementation can lower blood pressure. I believe this is why some websites claim that coconut water consumption is effective for lowering blood pressure. Coconuts and the water they contain are a food staple in many countries where coconuts are readily available.
Tags: blood pressure, coconut water, Diet & Exercise, high potassium, hypertension, low potassium, potassiumSalt sensitive hypertension
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jul 17 2007
Q: Do salt substitutes (or potassium products) help BP improvements but still deliver flavor?
A: Salt substitutes will help lower blood pressure in those with salt sensitive hypertension. Salt substitutes also do a good job of enhancing flavor in cooked foods. Personally, I cook with fresh herbs and spices and rarely use any salt.
Tags: Diet & Exercise, potassium, salt, salt sensitive hypertension
