Did the doctor tell you that your blood potassium level is high? It's normal to feel a little scared when he says that. But don't worry. This condition, which means that the potassium level in the blood increases, is medically called hyperkalemia. This is something that can be best controlled through diet and following the advice given by the doctor. Let's talk about this simply and clearly.
Why is potassium important to us?
Simply put, potassium is an essential mineral for our body's cells. It helps our muscles function properly, balances fluid levels in the body, and regulates blood pressure.
But, like anything, too much potassium can be a problem. Especially if our kidneys are weak, they can't excrete more potassium than the body needs through urine. That's when the potassium level in the blood rises. This can have a dangerous effect on heart function. So it's important to be careful about this.
It is said that the average healthy adult needs about 4,700 milligrams of potassium per day. However, if you have hyperkalemia, your doctor may advise limiting your daily potassium intake to between 2,000 and 3,000 milligrams .
What foods are high in potassium should we limit?
Many fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy foods are high in potassium. If a food contains more than 200 milligrams of potassium per serving, we call it a "high-potassium food." It's best to limit these foods as much as possible.
The most important thing is not to stop eating these foods completely, but to limit the amount you eat.
The table below is a list of foods high in potassium that we should generally limit.
| Food type | Foods high in potassium that should be limited |
|---|---|
| Fruits and fruit drinks | Apricots, avocados, bananas, watermelon, cantaloupe, oranges (and orange juice), papaya, pomegranate, raisins, dates, tangerines |
| Vegetables and legumes | Potatoes/sweet potatoes, tomatoes (including sauce and juice), spinach (cooked), broccoli (cooked), lentils, beans (black, red), pumpkin, raw cabbage |
| Nuts | Many nuts, peanut butter |
| Meat, fish | Beef, chicken, salmon |
| Cereals | Whole-grain breads, bran foods |
| Dairy foods and drinks | Milk, yogurt, coffee, tea, soy milk |
So what foods are low in potassium can we eat?
Don't worry, there are plenty of other foods you can enjoy. These foods contain less than 200 milligrams of potassium. But remember, even these foods are not good to eat in large quantities without control.
| Food type | Low-potassium foods to choose from |
|---|---|
| Fruit | Apples, berries (strawberries, blueberries), cherries, grapes, oranges, peaches, pineapple |
| Vegetables | Beans (cooked), carrots (cooked), corn, eggplant, cauliflower, onion, cucumber |
| Cereals | White bread, white pasta, white rice |
| Meat, fish and eggs | Turkey, eggs, tuna (not salmon), shrimp |
| Dairy foods | Cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, Cottage cheese |
More practical tips to reduce potassium
In addition to choosing your food wisely, here are some other simple ways to help you.
1. Read food labels
You can find out how much potassium is in packaged foods by looking at the "Nutrition Facts" section on the label. Make this a habit.
2. Measure the amount you take.
Even if it is a low-potassium food, eating a large amount at one time can increase the amount of potassium absorbed into the body. Therefore, it is very important to measure the amount before eating, such as with a cup or a handful.
3. Remove water from canned food
The liquid in canned fruits, vegetables, and fish is high in potassium. So , drain the water completely and rinse thoroughly before using. It's also a good idea to drain the juices from cooked meat.
4. Soaking and washing vegetables (Leaching)
This is a very important method. This method can be used to reduce the potassium content, especially in vegetables that are high in potassium, such as potatoes and sweet potatoes.
1. First, completely remove the skin of the vegetable.
2. Next, cut it into thin strips (about 1/8 of an inch).
3. Wash the cut pieces in lukewarm water for a few seconds.
4. Now put the vegetable pieces in a large bowl and add lukewarm water at a ratio of 1 cup of vegetables to 10 cups of water .
5. Let it soak for at least 2 hours . It's even better if you change the water every 4 hours.
6. After soaking, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water again.
7. When cooking, cook with 5 cups of water for 1 cup of vegetables .
8. Finally, completely drain any remaining water.
Although this method can remove some potassium, it does not remove it completely. Therefore, do not eat excessive amounts of vegetables prepared this way.
5. Avoid Salt Substitutes
Some people with high blood pressure use salt substitutes instead of table salt to season their food. But this is very dangerous. Because these salt substitutes contain potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride. That means they are high in potassium. Instead, use things like pepper, lime, garlic, and vinegar to season your food.
Other things not to forget
In addition to diet, it is also essential to follow the treatment plan your doctor gives you exactly.
- Follow the treatment plan: Your doctor may have prescribed medications such as diuretics (or "water pills") to lower your potassium levels. These cause your kidneys to produce more urine, which helps eliminate extra potassium. You may also be given medications such as potassium binders. These help remove extra potassium from your body through your stool.
- Avoid herbs and supplements: Do not take any herbs, decoctions, traditional medicine, or supplements without first consulting your doctor. Some of these may contain high levels of potassium.
If you have any questions or concerns about this, don't make decisions alone. Be sure to talk to your doctor and seek advice.
Take-Home Message
- Elevated potassium levels in the blood (Hyperkalemia) are a condition that can seriously affect heart health.
- The main way to control this is to adjust your diet.
- Limit foods high in potassium (potatoes, tomatoes, bananas, oranges) and choose foods low in potassium (apples, cucumbers, white rice).
- It is very important to avoid methods such as soaking and washing vegetables (leaching) and salt substitutes.
- Never change your diet or medications without medical advice. Talk to your doctor about any concerns.
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