What is potassium?

Potassium in your reports

Potassium is part of the electrolyte panel and kidney function test.

What to know:

• MedlinePlus gives a normal range of 3.7 to 5.2 mEq/L (3.7 to 5.2 mmol/L).
• Ranges may vary slightly between labs.
• Clenching your fist again and again during the blood draw can falsely raise the result.

Why potassium matters

Potassium helps keep your heartbeat regular, supports your muscles and bones, and helps balance fluids and acids in your body.

Too little can cause:

• weak muscles
• an irregular heartbeat
• a slight rise in blood pressure

Too much is usually a problem of the kidneys or certain medicines rather than food, and it can be dangerous for the heart.

Potassium in Indian food

Food is the best source:

• dals, rajma and chana
• potatoes with their skin, sweet potato and tomatoes
• bananas, oranges and dried apricots
• milk, curd and nuts

Vomiting, diarrhoea and heavy sweating can drain potassium, and so can some water pills and overuse of laxatives.

If you have kidney disease, your doctor may ask you to limit high-potassium foods, so follow their advice, and never start potassium supplements on your own.