Potassium and Blood Pressure Control
Potassium and Blood Pressure Control
Potassium is a mineral that is necessary for many body functions,
including muscle contraction and maintaining a regular heart beat. It is
often used as a supplement when people take diuretics (fluid pills). Fluid
pills tend to cause potassium loss in the urine. Individuals who are dehydrated
or have recently experienced vomiting or diarrhea may also need
potassium supplements. Recent high blood pressure treatment guidelines
recommend increasing potassium and reducing sodium (salt) for
blood pressure control.
One recent study showed that potassium may play a stronger role in
controlling blood pressure and reducing heart disease than previously
thought. Researchers collected urine samples over a 24 hour period from
2275 people enrolled in two other large blood pressure studies. They
measured the amount of potassium and sodium in the urine. It was found
that individuals with the lowest urine sodium to potassium ratio had the
lowest risk for heart disease. This means that having adequate potassium
intake may be as important as salt restriction as it relates to reducing the
risk of heart disease.