What Effect Can a High Level of Potassium in the Blood Cause?

Potassium is the third most abundant mineral in the body and is classified as an electrolyte. Ninety-eight percent of the body's potassium is intracellular. The mineral can be used to treat high blood pressure and stroke. Excess consumption of potassium can lead to kidney failure.

Function

• Potassium is vital in metabolism, transmission of nerve signals, muscle contraction, fluid balance and other cellular activities, making it a necessary component of an individual's everyday diet.

Sources of Potassium

• All meats, poultry and fish are sources of potassium. Some fruits and vegetables are high in potassium, including citrus fruits, raisins, prunes, apricots, bananas, cantaloupe, sweet potatoes (especially the skin), white potatoes, spinach, beet greens and winter squash. Other sources are white and pinto beans, low-fat milk and yogurt.

Recommended Intakes

• No Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of potassium exists for adults in the United States. A healthy individual is encouraged to consume approximately 3,500 to 4,700 milligrams of potassium per day (more is recommended for pregnant women). Although no Upper Limit (UL) has been established, an excess of potassium may lead to toxicity.

Side Effects and Cautions

• The kidneys normally remove excess potassium from the body. Too much potassium may create a buildup of the mineral in the bloodstream (hyperkalemia) and poor kidney functioning. Hyperkalemia can cause nausea, fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness or irregular heartbeat. Thus, individuals with damaged kidneys should limit their intake of potassium. Hyperkalemia is treatable and is fairly common, seen in approximately 8 percent of hospitalized patients in the United States.

Suggestions

• To avoid overconsumption of potassium, limit dietary intake of fruits, vegetables and dairy, which are generally high in potassium. Use primarily herbs and spices that are deficient in potassium. Avoid salt substitutes (many contain potassium) and consume low-potassium foods such as green beans, cucumbers, raw cabbage, applesauce and cranberries.