Should I take potassium?

Our read is that potassium supplementation is well supported, primarily due to the difficulty in achieving the adequate intake of 4700mg/day, which 97% of Americans fail to meet, as noted by Rhonda Patrick. Experts like Paul Saladino and Andrew Huberman suggest that maintaining a proper sodium and potassium balance is crucial for blood pressure, mental clarity, and physical performance.

However, caution is advised for individuals with kidney disease, those on certain medications like ACE inhibitors or diuretics, and anyone considering high-dose supplementation, as excessive potassium can be harmful, potentially causing heart issues, according to Paul Saladino.

To increase potassium intake, Paul Saladino recommends using salt alternatives like 'low salt' (potassium chloride mixed with sodium chloride) and notes that meat is a significant source. Andrew Huberman suggests ingesting water with salt and a potassium tablet for improved mental clarity and work performance. For specific goals, Paul Saladino mentions that potassium citrate may be beneficial for individuals experiencing oxalate clearing or to prevent kidney stone re-accumulation by weakening calcium bonds.

• 01Rhonda Patrick (3x) states that the adequate intake for potassium is 4700mg/day, which is difficult to achieve, leading to 97% of Americans not meeting this requirement.
• 02Paul Saladino (1x) notes that blood pressure is driven by the sodium and potassium balance.
• 03Andrew Huberman (1x) suggests that ingesting water with salt and a potassium tablet can improve mental clarity and the ability to perform physical and mental work.
• 04