Can Potassium Successfully Lower Blood Pressure?
Blood Pressure and Potassium
Most of us are well aware that we should avoid excessive consumption of certain nutrients (such as sodium) if we want to keep our blood pressure in check. However, many of us aren’t aware of the nutrients that can actually lower our blood pressure. Potassium is one example of a nutrient that can have a beneficial effect on blood pressure. To find out more about potassium and its affects on blood pressure, read on...
Nature's Miracle
Potassium is important for regulating your body’s fluid balance. Luckily, it's not hard to get as it is found in many foods. Bananas are a great source of potassium. One banana has about 450 mg of potassium. Have sliced banana with your morning oatmeal. Potatoes are another source of potassium. Try substituting potatoes one night a week in place of rice. Potatoes actually have more potassium than bananas, with one potato containing about 750 mg.
Check Your Levels
Not many individuals are deficient in potassium, but check with your doctor if you are worried about your potassium levels. Certain medications like diuretics can lower your potassium levels. Do home blood pressure checks if possible after adding more potassium to your diet so you can determine if the extra potassium has resulted in improved blood pressure. Let your doctor know of any dietary changes you have initiated yourself, so he or she can better advise you.
Do It Naturally
It’s great if you can control your blood pressure through dietary changes. Eating potassium-rich foods might not resolve your blood pressure completely, but it might reduce the amount of medication you need to take. If you need more help incorporating potassium into your diet, ask your doctor for help.
Supplements May Help
Some medical studies have actually shown that oral potassium supplements can successfully lower blood pressure. The effect that potassium supplementation will have on your blood pressure will depend on how severe your blood pressure is and how long you’ve had high blood pressure.