How to Decrease High Potassium Levels

If you spend all day noshing on bananas, kidney beans and strawberries you probably think you're a fairly healthy individual. But, these good-for-you-foods have one thing in common that may actually be bad for your health; they are all high-potassium foods and too much potassium (a condition known as hyperkalemia) can be harmful. According to the Cleveland Clinic, signs of high potassium include "weakness, general discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, pain and muscle weakness. These side effects can progress to paralysis, a decreased ability to urinate and a slow or irregular heartbeat." Use these tips to reduce your potassium if you think your at risk for hyperkalemia.

Instructions

How to Decrease High Potassium Levels

• 1

  Boil vegetables and fruits in water.
  According to the Cleveland Clinic, this helps to lower their potassium content.

• 2

  Avoid salt substitutes.
  Salt-substitute products often are made entirely of potassium. If you are at risk for high potassium or have high potassium levels do not use salt substitutes.

• 3

  Cut back on preserved foods.
  Frozen entrees use preservatives to keep the food fresh over time. These preservatives often contain high levels of potassium. Again, check the food labels before buying and consuming frozen entrees.

• 4

  Keep a record of the foods you eat.
  Writing down the food you eat every day in a food journal is a good way to monitor your potassium intake. Write down the food/meal and the amount of potassium it contains. Check the food's label or look it up online to figure out its potassium content.