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Potassium

Mineral Unit: mEq/L

Electrolyte essential for heart and muscle function

Also known as: K+,Serum Potassium

Reference Ranges

Clinical Reference 3.5 – 5.0 mEq/L
Optimal Range 4.0 – 4.8 mEq/L
Critical Range < 2.8 / > 6.2 mEq/L

Critical range; >6.0 is emergency

Related Conditions

Kidney Disease High
Hypertension Low

Food & Lifestyle Recommendations

🍎 Food Increase potassium-rich foods: bananas, sweet potatoes, avocados, spinach, white beans Adequate potassium intake lowers blood pressure in meta-analyses
🍎 Food Reduce high-potassium foods: bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, oranges, avocados Dietary potassium restriction is first-line for hyperkalemia management
💡 Other Stay well-hydrated to support kidney potassium excretion Adequate hydration maintains GFR and potassium clearance
💡 Other Ask your doctor about checking kidney function and medications that may raise potassium (ACE inhibitors, spironolactone) Drug-induced hyperkalemia is common and often overlooked

Evidence-Backed Supplements

When High

  • Calcium Tier A Membrane Stabilizer

    IV calcium gluconate is emergency treatment for hyperkalemia ECG changes; oral calcium less established

    Reduce calcium supplementation Consult physician N/A
    PMID 30132304 PMID 39560075 PMID 25922862

When Low

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

  • Could my low potassium be related to medication (e.g., diuretics) rather than dietary intake? Common with thiazide and loop diuretics
  • Is my high potassium a lab artifact (hemolysis) or a true medical concern? Hemolyzed samples falsely elevate K+

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