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Potassium![]() |
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Excessive dietary or supplemental intake of potassim can be harmful.
Potassium is excreted in the urine, which provides some preotection against toxicity; however, doses of 18g. or more have caused toxic symptoms in adults.
Excessive potassium intake results in heart and kidney malfunctions that are potentially fatal.
There is no Daily Value or Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for potassium, but the estimated minimum requirement for this mineral is 2,000mg. per day for adults.
The average daily diet provides 800mg. to 1,500mg. of potassium.
A deficiency of potassium is unlikely, except in cases of dehydration, excessive vomiting or diarrhea, kidney failure, or long-term use of diuretics or laxatives. Fasting, anorexia, or starvation are other possible causes of potassium deficiency.
Symptoms of potassium deficiency include irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, fatigue, and death.