Potassium (K+)

Functions

• regulation of fluid balance
  • cells and blood
• nerve impulse transmission
• muscle contraction
• function of heart and kidneys

Deficiency

• muscle weakness
• irregular heart beat
• kidney damage
• deficiency most often seen in people
  • taking diuretics
  • dehydrated from prolonged diarrhea

Good Sources

Natural

• bananas
• citrus fruits
• fresh vegetables
• potatoes
• legumes
• whole grains
• milk and dairy products
• meats, fish
• nuts, seeds

Artificial

• Wheat germ

Adequate Intakes (AI)

• Males and Females (19-51+ yrs.)
  • 4,700 mg (4.7 g )
  • 2,000 mg
• Children
  • 10-18 yrs.
    • 2,000 mg
  • 6-9 yrs.
    • 1,600 mg
  • 2-5 yrs.
    • 1,400 mg
  • 1 yr
    • 1,000 mg
• Infants
  • 7 mths-1 yr
    • 700 mg
  • birth-6 mths
    • 500 mg
• Varied values reflect different references

Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (UL)

• Adults (19 to 50 yrs)
  • not yet determined

Intakes above UL may lead to negative health consequences.

Supplementation

• Not usually recommended.
• Take only under doctors advice and supervision