Potassium Supplements - its
benefits and side effects
Potassium, a mineral, is important to the proper functions of kidney,
heart and muscles. Potassium can be found in fruits, vegetables and
legumes. Usually, a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits provides the
amount of potassium needed.

IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ENOUGH POTASSIUM?

Inadequate amounts of magnesium, excessive intake of sodium,
diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating, malnutrition, and use of diuretics
will lead to hypokalemia, i.e. potassium deficiency. Coffee, licorice, alcohol
and caffeine-containing herbs (such as cola nut, guarana and tea) can
lead to loss of potassium, for example through urination. Overdose of
potassium leads to a condition called hyperkalemia.

Potassium supplements may benefit people suffered from high blood
pressure. However, researchers from Norway found that moderate
reduction in sodium intake, with or without addition of potassium, is not
sufficient to induce significant long-term intraarterial or 24-h ambulatory
blood pressure changes in essential hypertension.

THE SIDE EFFECTS OF POTASSIUM SUPPLEMENTS

People with hyperkalemia should not use potassium. Common side
effects of excessive intake of potassium supplements include diarrhea
and nausea. Other side effects are muscle weakness, slowed heart rate,
and abnormal heart rhythm. High potassium levels can cause irregular
and dangerous heartbeats, and sometimes death.

http://www.zhion.com/Supplements/Potassium.html
"Victoria crater" Image Credit: NASA/JPL/Cornell  SPACE