How to Lower Potassium Levels
Potassium is an essential nutrient that's found in various foods. The body needs potassium. Yet, having a high potassium level is dangerous, and this condition can cause muscle weakness, impede kidney function and increase your risk of having a heart attack. However, there are quick and simple ways to lower your potassium level.
Instructions
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Increase your calcium intake. Calcium effectively lowers potassium levels. Include yogurt, milk and other dairy products into your diet. If necessary, take supplements to receive the daily recommended dose of calcium.
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Take garlic supplements. Other natural remedies to lower high potassium levels include eating a clove of garlic or taking garlic supplements each day.
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Drink plenty of water. Water is an antioxidant, and it removes harmful toxins from the body. If you're trying to normalize your potassium level, increase your water intake. Drink between eight and ten glasses of water a day. Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages (soda, coffee and teas) and alcohol.
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Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. To lower your potassium level, you'll need to modify your diet and limit your intake of potassium-rich foods. These include potatoes, peas and bananas. Fruits and vegetables that help lower potassium levels include berries, canned peaches, lemon, cauliflower, lettuce, and cucumbers.
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Exercise regularly. Frequent workouts can improve your overall health and lower your potassium level. Create an exercise schedule and workout for 30 minutes at least three times of week. Complete a combination of light exercises, aerobics and strength training.
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Tips & Warnings
Taking a diuretic can help the kidneys flush excess potassium from the bloodstream. Processed foods are generally low in potassium, whereas fresh fruits and vegetables tend to have higher potassium levels.
Having a extremely low potassium level is just as dangerous as having a high potassium level. Both can result in heart failure and other complications. Thus, you shouldn't completely eliminate potassium-rich foods from your diet.
Resources
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