How to Prevent Low Potassium in the Body

Potassium is a key element in the human body, one that is essential for basic cellular function and maintaining water balance. When potassium levels get low, you can experience everything from muscle cramps to high blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association. However, there are multiple steps you can take to prevent low potassium levels.

Things You'll Need

• Bananas
• Cantaloupe
• Potatoes
• Prunes
• Grapefruit
• Beans
• Sports drinks
• Potassium supplements

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Instructions

From Medication

• 1

  According to the American Heart Association, certain heart medications can cause low potassium levels because of their side effect of frequent urination. If trying a new medication, monitor how much you are urinating, or if you are displaying symptoms of low potassium such as muscle cramps.

• 2

  Consult a doctor if you discover that your medication is causing low potassium. Common remedies are an increase in intake of potassium-rich foods such as bananas, cantaloupe and beans.

• 3

  Take a potassium supplement, as recommended by your doctor, to increase your potassium levels.

After Sickness

• 4

  According to Dr. Gabe Mirkin, vomiting and diarrhea may also lead to low potassium levels. Avoid situations that might induce vomiting or diarrhea.

• 5

  If you do vomit or experience diarrhea, take steps to replace lost potassium. According to Dr. Mirkin, the body can easily regulate its potassium levels through consumption of potassium-rich foods such as prunes and potatoes.

• 6

  Seek professional help if you suffer from bulimia, as this might cause low level of potassium in your blood.

During Exercise

• 7

  Keep yourself hydrated with sports drinks containing electrolytes, to prevent low potassium caused by sweating during exercise.

• 8

  Consume potassium-rich foods such as grapefruit and bananas soon after working out.

• 9

  If you are an athlete in training, consider supplementing your potassium intake from foods. According to Professor J. Andersen, Colorado State University Foods and Nutrition specialist, the acceptable level of potassium intake is 4.7 g per day but for athletes the number should be higher.