What Are the Signs of a Potassium Deficiency?

Potassium is a vital mineral that helps regulate fluids in the body and promote proper functioning of nerves and muscles. 

Small changes in potassium levels can have an effect on bodily functions, since the mineral is responsible for regulating the electrical activity of cells in the body. When potassium levels drop, it can affect cells with high electrical activity such as the heart, muscles, and nerves.

Although we get the majority of our potassium from our diet, a diet low in potassium is rarely the cause of hypokalemia. Potassium deficiency is most commonly caused when your body loses it from the gastrointestinal tract or kidneys due to:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Laxative overuse
• Diuretic overuse
• Hyperaldosteronism (high aldosterone levels)
• Chronic kidney disease
• Excessive sweating 
• Certain genetic conditions

Severe hypokalemia can cause serious consequences and can even be fatal. Complications may include:

• Paralysis or muscle damage
• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Respiratory failure
• Kidney damage

Treatment of potassium insufficiency depends on the severity of the condition and your medical history. Your doctor may recommend:

• Potassium supplements
• Increasing potassium in your diet
• Stopping any drugs that may be causing potassium deficiency
• Taking medications that help increase potassium levels

However, excess potassium can lead to a condition known as hyperkalemia, which can cause catastrophic muscle and cardiac damage. Therefore, low potassium must be treated under medical supervision.

Potassium supplements should only be taken as advised by your doctor.  If your potassium levels are dangerously low, you may require hospitalization and intravenous potassium supplementation.

Potassium deficiency can usually be avoided by eating a healthy, balanced diet. Daily recommended intake of potassium is as follows:

• Adult men: 3,400 mg 
• Adult women: 2,600 mg

Foods rich in potassium include:

• Lentils
• Bananas
• Dried apricots
• Milk
• Broccoli and spinach
• Oranges
• Yogurt
• Plant-based milk
• Salmon
• Tomatoes

Talk to your doctor about your potassium levels if you are at greater risk of deficiency (for example, if you are on diuretics).