Heroic Potassium

Washington Post nutrition writer Sally Squires weighs in on the National Academy of Science’s recent recommendation to stop worrying so much about water consumption and eat more potassium-rich foods.

The NAS is concerned that potassium consumption amounts to only about 3 grams a day for most Americans – far below the 4.7 grams considered essential. Potassium skimping is a bad idea. Taken at adequate levels, potassium has been shown to lower blood pressure and offset the effects of high-sodium diets. Researchers even believe potassium may contribute to healthier bones and reduce the risk of kidney stones.

"An increased intake of potassium would not only lead to lower sodium intake but tends to help mute the effects of sodium in the diet," said Paul Whelton, an NAS committee member and senior vice president of academic affairs at Tulane University. "It's a win-win situation and is especially important for certain subgroups of the population who have a disproportionate burden of illness and seem particularly sensitive to high salt and low potassium. African Americans are a classic example."

Posted by Jim Langcuster at February 18, 2004 08:15 AM | TrackBack