After calcium and phosphorus, potassium is the third most abundant mineral in the body, which underscores this electrolyte nutrient’s importance to human health. The term electrolyte refers to a substance that dissociates (i.e., dissolves) in solution (such as the watery medium of the bloodstream), making it capable of conducting electricity. This is important during nerve transmission and muscle contraction, including electrical impulses in the heart.

Potassium is found mostly inside the cells, as compared to sodium (another electrolyte), which is found in extracellular (outside the cell) fluids. Although the daily value for potassium is 3,500 mg, the amount allowed in supplements is limited to 99 mg per serving. The reason for this is that high doses of supplemental potassium have the potential to irritate the stomach.

This having been said, at some point in time, you’re likely to see a supplement that provides more than 99 mg per serving. The reason that this occurs is that the potassium present in such a product is naturally occurring rather than added. For example, you might see a weight/muscle gainer powder mix that provides a few hundred milligrams per serving.

In this instance, the potassium was naturally occurring as part of the protein or carbohydrate ingredients, not added as a discrete ingredient. In this type of situation, the higher levels of potassium are legally acceptable in a supplement.

Health Benefits

Potassium is necessary to help maintain the normal osmotic pressure of body fluids and the acid-base balance of the body. It also functions in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contraction.

Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. Here are some health benefits associated with potassium supplements:

Supports Blood Pressure: Potassium helps to balance sodium levels in the body, which can lead to lower blood pressure. Adequate potassium intake is often linked to a reduced risk of hypertension.

Supports Heart Health: By helping to regulate blood pressure and maintain proper heartbeat rhythms, potassium can contribute to overall cardiovascular health. It may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Supports Muscle Function: Potassium is vital for muscle contractions and function. It helps in preventing muscle cramps and weakness, especially during exercise.

Supports Nervous System Function: Potassium is important for nerve function, as it helps transmit electrical signals throughout the body. This is essential for coordination and reflexes.

Supports Healthy Bones: Some studies suggest that higher potassium intake may be associated with better bone health, possibly by reducing calcium loss and improving bone density.

Supports Fluid Balance: Potassium helps maintain the body's fluid balance, which is essential for proper cell function and hydration.

Supports Kidney Health: Adequate potassium levels can help the kidneys function more effectively, assisting in the regulation of electrolytes in the body.

Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet

Iodine (from kelp: 150 mcg:

Potassium (as potassium gluconate): 99mg

Other ingredients: Dicalcium phosphate, vegetable stearic acid, vegetable magnesium stearate, aqueous film coating (purified water, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, vegetable glycerin), croscarmellose sodium, and silicon dioxide.

Allergen Warning: Contains Crustacean Shellfish (KELP)

Non-GMO formula!

Keep out of the reach of children. Do not use if the safety seal is damaged or missing. Store in a cool, dry place.

Suggested Use

1 tablet daily, preferably with a meal or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Caution

Do not exceed the recommended dose. Pregnant or nursing mothers, children under 18, and individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement. This product is manufactured and packaged in a facility that may also process milk, soy, wheat, egg, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and crustacean shellfish.

The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these statements. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Deficiency symptoms

An overt deficiency of potassium is unlikely but possible with a diet regularly low in fruit and vegetables. Gross deficiencies may occur in cases of prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, or use of potassium-depleting” diuretic drugs. Low levels of potassium may be associated with the following disorders:

• Muscular weakness
• Paralysis
• Confusion
• Tachycardia and/or irregular heartbeat

When to Take / Types to Take

Potassium supplements are best taken with a meal. Various forms of potassium are available. These include potassium acetate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium chloride, potassium citrate, potassium gluconate, and potassium phosphate. Any of these is are acceptable form of potassium.

Safety Issues

The major safety concern for potassium is that individuals taking potassium-sparing diuretics should avoid supplementing with this mineral.

Summary

• Potassium is necessary to help maintain the normal pressure of body fluids.
• Potassium is necessary to help maintain the acid-base balance of the body.
• Potassium functions in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contraction.
• Potassium is needed for various enzymatic reactions.
• Potassium is needed to facilitate gastric secretion.
• Potassium is necessary for kidney function.
• Potassium is necessary for tissue synthesis.
• Potassium is necessary for carbohydrate synthesis.