Fructose

should always be treated by a doctor.
High Blood Pressure
Some studies have linked low levels of potassium in the diet with high blood pressure. And there is
some evidence that potassium supplements might cause a slight drop in blood pressure and that
a high diet of potassium rich foods and successfully lower blood pressure. It may be that taking
potassium only helps lower blood pressure if you're not getting enough of this mineral to start
with. Before taking potassium or any supplement for high blood pressure, talk to your doctor. But
a high potassium diet is a good idea.
Stroke
People who get a lot of potassium in their diet have a lower risk of stroke, improved blood pressure,
less risk of heart attacks, and greater stamina. However, potassium supplements don't seem to
have the same benefit.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
People with IBD (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease) often have trouble absorbing nutrients from
their intestine, and may have low levels of potassium and other important nutrients. If you have
IBD, your doctor may check your potassium levels and recommend a supplement.
Dietary Sources: Potassium makes Foods more Orange in color.
Good sources of potassium include pumpkin, squash, paprika, figs, citrus juices (such as orange
juice), avocados, cantaloupes, tomatoes, bananas, potatoes, lima beans, flounder, salmon, cod,
chicken, and other meats.
Available Forms:
Several potassium supplements are on the market, including potassium acetate, potassium
bicarbonate, potassium citrate, potassium chloride, and potassium gluconate. It is available in
tablets, capsules, effervescent tablets, powders, and liquids.
Potassium can also be found in multivitamins.
But by far the best program is to get your potassium from fruits and vegetables and to lower
excess salt. Studies show that Potassium rich diets are better than most blood pressure
medications.
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