(11/21/25) Hyper/ Hypokalemia
Potassium is an essential mineral found in our blood which comes from the foods we eat. Potassium plays an important role in:
- Hydration and fluid balance
- Muscle contraction
- Regulating blood pressure
- Nervous system function
- Maintaining bone density
The normal range for blood potassium levels is between 3.5-5.0 mmol/ L. If levels become too high (Hyperkalemia) or too low (Hypokalemia), severe health issues can arise, and it’s important to seek medical attention.
Hyperkalemia, or High Blood Potassium
Causes:
- Potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, and other medications: beta blockers (ex: propranolol), ACE inhibitors (ex: lisinopril), and angiotensin receptor antagonists (ex: losartan).**
- Health conditions: chronic kidney disease, Diabetes, heart disease
Symptoms: symptoms of high potassium may be mild, and some people may not have any symptoms at all. Symptoms may include:
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Nausea
If potassium levels are significantly elevated, one can experience heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, or vomiting. Severe Hyperkalemia requires immediate medical attention.
Hypokalemia, or low blood potassium
Causes:
- Excessive vomiting, sweating, or diarrhea
- Medications: diuretics, laxatives, insulin, and certain antibiotics**
- Health conditions: Alcohol use disorder, Adrenal disorders, chronic kidney disease.
Symptoms:
- Heart palpitations
- Extreme fatigue
- Muscle weakness and cramping
- Numbness, tingling
- Low blood pressure
** These are not exhaustive lists. Ask your doctor if any of the medications you take can cause high or low potassium levels.
Nutrition:
It is rare for Hypo or Hyperkalemia to be caused by low or high intake of potassium foods without any other underlying issues present. However, people with these conditions may need to monitor their intake of potassium-rich foods.
Fun Fact:
The Adequate Intake (AI) for potassium is 2,600-3,400 mg per day.
It is estimated that 98% of Americans are not getting the recommended amount of potassium in their daily diets!
High Potassium Foods (people with Hyperkalemia may need to avoid or limit these foods):
- Fruits: avocados, watermelon, tomatoes, banana
- Vegetables: white and sweet potatoes, winter squashes, leafy greens
- Beans, legumes
- Seafood
- Salt substitutes
- Beverages: fruit juices, coconut water
If you have high potassium levels and need to limit your intake from dietary sources, choose lower potassium fruits and vegetables, including:
- Vegetables: Cauliflower, celery, cucumber, broccoli, cabbage, green beans
- Fruits: Apples, pears, berries, citrus fruits
For a complete list of low potassium foods, visit :Understanding Hyperkalemia: How to Manage Potassium Levels with Diet | National Kidney Foundation (or maybe we could somehow link an image of the Chase Brexton potassium handout in the article) .
Sources:
Drug-induced hyperkalemia - PubMed
