Naga City--Hyperkalemia refers to the potassium level in your blood that is higher than normal. Potassium is one of the essential macro-minerals needed by the body to support key processes. It helps our muscles at work, including the heart, the kidneys, and the transport of messages through the nervous system.

Excess potassium that your body does not need is filtered by the kidneys and lost through urine. Having too much potassium can be dangerous to your health, especially if you have kidney disease. As a result, potassium builds up in your blood. This can cause the onset of life-threatening problems such as arrhythmia that can cause a heart attack.

The recommended intake of potassium is 3,400 mg/day for adult males and 2,600 mg/ day for females. One benefit of potassium is the role it plays in managing blood pressure by helping the body remove sodium and relaxing the walls of the blood vessels. 

A diet that controls the amount of potassium you consume daily will help prevent hyperkalemia. Here are a few tips to keep your potassium levels at bay:

Pay attention to serving sizes

Use measuring cups to know how many servings you are eating or drinking.

Read nutrition labels

Potassium does not always show up on the label. It is usually abbreviated as K, KCl, and K+

Limit salt substitutes

These are usually loaded with potassium and other additives.

Drinks have them too

Most fruit juices have high potassium levels, especially orange and tomato.

Choose the acceptable potassium foods every day

If you have been advised to eat less potassium in your diet, the adequate portion size to remember is ½ cup. This applies to most fruits and vegetables like apples, watermelon, mango, cabbage, lettuce, and bean sprouts.

Limit higher potassium foods

These foods are naturally ubiquitous in the community such as banana, avocado, dried fruits and nuts, pechay, malunggay, ube, potato, coconut milk, and even coffee.

If you are having problems managing your potassium levels, it is best to see your healthcare provider. Most people struggle with their diet and medicines. Registered Nutritionist-Dietitians can help you curate the diet best fit for your daily needs. // ND II Juan Viktor V. Filamor, RND