Should I Take Potassium Supplements?

Potassium is a key nutrient in the body that, among other responsibilities, helps balance your blood pressure and maintain muscle health. According to the Mayo Clinic, low potassium levels can cause muscle fatigue and pain, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, and nausea; however, an excess of potassium can cause similar symptoms. Before taking any type of supplement, you should always check with your doctor.

Diet may be enough

• Most people don't need potassium supplements because they consume enough potassium through their diet. High sources of potassium include bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, peaches, and most types of beans and lentils, so if you need to boost your potassium levels, try making the improvement through dietary means before relying on a pill.

Have your potassium tested

• Before you start taking potassium supplements, have your potassium level checked by your doctor at your annual physical or before. It can be done through a simple blood test and should be among the things that are checked when you have routine blood work done, particularly if you have high blood pressure or diabetes.

What to look for in a supplement

• If your doctor recommends a potassium supplement, be sure to know the amount you should consume. Too much potassium can cause health problems, including strokes. The Mayo Clinic notes that there is no official recommended daily allowance for potassium, but it's considered that 1,600 to 2,000 mg of potassium daily is adequate for most adults.

Watch your age

• Older adults are more likely to have higher potassium levels than younger people, and seniors are more vulnerable to negative interactions with their medications and supplements. If your potassium levels are outside the normal or healthy range, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications and nutritional supplements you take to help avoid complications.

How to take the supplement

• Potassium supplements should be taken with water or juice. The supplements come in several forms, including liquids, soluble tablets, and pills. If you have trouble swallowing pills, talk with your doctor about an alternative version of the supplement.