Potassium Supplements Side Effects

Deficiency of potassium can adversely affect the vital functions of the body, as potassium is one of the most important minerals and electrolytes. It is concerned with the transmission of nerve signals, regulation of blood pressure and heartbeat, digestion and muscle contraction. Along with sodium it helps to maintain water balance inside the cells. So, potassium is one the vital nutrients required for maintaining the various body functions. Usually, a diet rich in potassium can provide the required amount of this mineral. But sometimes, one may also need potassium supplements along with consumption of potassium rich foods. Like any other supplement, supplements of potassium can also cause a few side effects. But, before going into the details of potassium supplements side effects, let's take a brief look at the uses and benefits of these supplements.

Uses of Potassium Supplements

Potassium supplements can be found in the form of tablets, powder or liquid. Potassium supplements are mainly used to correct a deficiency of this important mineral. Deficiency of potassium, or low potassium level can cause several health problems including, muscle cramps, weakness, irregular heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, mood changes and stomach problems. The medical term for an abnormally low level of potassium in blood is 'hypokalemia' and potassium supplements are basically used to treat this condition. Hypokalemia rarely results from the insufficient dietary intake of potassium. Instead, it can be associated with conditions like, gastrointestinal problems such as, diarrhea and vomiting, excessive use of laxatives, diuretics, aspirin and cortisone and kidney diseases.

Potassium Supplements Side Effects

Like potassium deficiency, an abnormally high level of potassium is also not good for health. Elevated levels of potassium in blood is known as hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can lead to some serious health complications, if left untreated. Therefore, supplements of potassium should be taken with adequate care and under the supervision of a health care provider or physician. Taking too much of potassium supplements can cause gastrointestinal distress like, diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea and vomiting. These are the most common side effects of potassium supplements.

A significantly high level of potassium can also cause side effects like, muscle weakness, abnormal heart rhythm, generalized weakness, slow heart rate, tingling of the hands and feet and anxiety. Apart from these, confusion, shortness of breath, abdominal pain and cramps, irregular heart rhythm, dizziness, listlessness, chest pain or pain in the throat while swallowing, low blood pressure and red or black stool can be some other less common or rare side effects of potassium supplements. On observing any of these rare, but serious potassium supplements side effects, be sure to inform your physician as soon as possible.

Potassium supplements should not be used by individuals with kidney diseases and heart problems, or they should confirm with their physician before taking this supplementation. Even people having disorders of the digestive tract should better avoid supplements of potassium, or talk to their physician about it. Digestive disorders can affect the elimination of excess potassium from the body, which can be dangerous. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also consult their health care provider regarding the use of potassium supplements. Supplements of potassium can interact with certain medications, for which individuals taking any kind of medications need inform their physician before taking supplements of potassium.

So, these are some of the possible potassium supplements side effects. Many of the potassium supplement dangers can be avoided by taking these supplements with adequate care and in the appropriate dosage, as prescribed by the physician. It is always safer to rely on the high potassium foods to get enough potassium required by the body, unless you are suffering from hypokalemia or your physician recommends the use of supplements. Some of the important foods high in potassium are, fruits and vegetables such as, bananas, apples, avocados, citrus fruits, peas, broccoli, potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, lettuce and parsley, meat and fish like, sardines, salmon and cod.