Potassium Chloride & Blood Pressure

Intake of potassium is known to help lower blood pressure. Potassium chloride can be taken as a dietary supplement, and is also found in some salt substitute products.

Identification

• According to the Harvard Medical School, potassium chloride is taken as a dietary supplement, as opposed to potassium citrate, which occurs naturally in many foods.

Significance

• The American Heart Association states that intake of potassium is important for reducing blood pressure. Potassium chloride has been used in studies as a supplement that patients use to increase potassium intake.

Salt Substitute

• Potassium chloride is sometimes used in salt substitute products. The potassium chloride replaces sodium chloride found in salt.

Benefits

• The purpose of using potassium chloride or increasing intake of potassium in the diet is that it blunts the effects of sodium with regard to blood pressure.

Expert Insight

• According to a 2005 study done by the Harvard Medical School, the best way to increase the intake of potassium is to eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas, citrus, fish, green vegetables, legumes, melons, tomatoes, whole grains, potatoes, poultry and yogurt. With a proper diet, the study states, you shouldn't need to take a supplement with potassium chloride.