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Potassium Supplements

4tun8 said: "I'm really glad your teacher mentioned that, because one time I tried one of those crazy, crash diets - when I was much younger - and ended up in the hospital for several days because of an "electrolyte imbalance" which was really about the shortage of potassium in my body - I had to have it from an IV for 24 hours. When this happened I had felt fine too. I had gone to a regular doctor's appointment and mentioned that I'd lost weight and he ordered a blood check which I thought was regular. When he told my mom and me that I was going to be admitted to the hospital, we were shocked. (My mom was a nurse and was really taken by surprise.) I've learned alot about nutrition since then (and patience too). Jen"

Heather said: "Bananas are also a great source for natural potassium. Without having to take a pill. Don't forget about them!"

Cupcake said: "My gym teacher had said last night in one of my classes that if one planned on starting a work out routine... that they should start taking a potassium supplement. I didn't have a chance to ask her why... Does anyone here know?? Thanks!"

Cupcake said: "Wow thanks guys! I'm taking 4 new workout classes at the Y... so I guess I should probably go get some potassium tablets at Rite Aid.... Definitely don't want leg cramps! Thanks again."

Cupcake said: "I thought of that too... Don't like bananas tho :p"

Cupcake said: "Okay so I went to the drugstore and got a bottle of the supplements... but something confused me on the label. It says that 1 table (the daily dose) is only 3% of the daily recommended value. I thought a supplement would be more than that... :confused: Does this seem right???"

Cupcake said: "Thanks... I didn't know that. Now it makes sense! :o"

UniqueMystique said: "My doctor requires me to take a potassium supplement, too. She explained to me that although I was drinking a lot of water...my body is losing fluids too from the exercise and my diet pills. When you lose the fluids you also lose some minerals. Without adequate potassium in your diet you run the risk of developing muscle cramps. I've been awakened in the early AM with leg cramps before. It's a crappy way to be woken up cuz it hurts like a *mutters an explicative*!!!! :D"

UniqueMystique said: "Not sure exactly why...but I was told to take the potassium 'after' I'd had lunch."

UniqueMystique said: "The RDA for potassium is 3.5 grams...so you're close and probably getting the rest that you need from food sources."

Qian said: "Here you go. But it sounds like as long as your on a normal diet, you shouldn't be in too bad of shape. Potassium is required for: It is needed for growth, building muscles, transmission of nerve impulses, heart activity etc. Potassium, together with sodium - potassium inside the cell and sodium in the fluid surrounding the cell, work together for the nervous system to transmit messages as well as regulating the contraction of muscles. Deficiency of potassium: The kidneys excrete any excesses, but deficiencies are seldom found in people on normal diets, although most people could look at increasing their potassium intake. A deficiency may result in fatigue, cramping legs, muscle weakness, slow reflexes, acne, dry skin, mood changes, irregular heartbeat. If you are into bodybuilding, it is also a good idea to increase your potassium intake, since potassium is needed to maintain your muscles in good form, controlling your muscle actions, and since potassium is lost in excessive sweating and urine. A great way to include this in your diet is to have a banana, citrus fruit or even a dash of apple cider vinegar. Dosage: The dosage underneath is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind. A daily intake of about 3,500 milligrams is needed. Potassium is well absorbed, but is not stored in large quantities in the body. Toxicity and symptoms of high intake: Excessive potassium can be toxic and will affect your heart, but is mainly a problem when you suffer from a problem such as kidney failure. Best used with: A person should take twice as much potassium as sodium, and is best taken with vitamin B6. When more potassium may be required: Potassium is easily lost in the urine, and if large amounts of salt is ingested, it may be wise to take a potassium supplement. If you are suffering from vomiting, diarrhea or extreme sweating you may require more potassium or if your diet includes mostly processed foods, large amounts of caffeine, alcohol, or if you take diuretic pills or laxatives. If you suffer from diabetes, or suffer from kidney problems do not take a potassium supplement without your doctors consent. Enemy of element: Potassium is lost from food when canning. Other interesting points on potassium : If you suffer from kidney stones, you might benefit from increasing high potassium containing foods in your diet to supply more potassium to your body, as higher potassium levels have proved helpful in preventing kidney stones. Food sources: Potassium is found in fruit, vegetables as well as whole grains, citrus fruit, molasses, fish and unprocessed meats"

Qian said: "Here are some other sources of potassium. Hope it helps. [url]www.naturodoc.com/library/nutrition/potassium.htm[/url]"