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How To Lower Potassium

By: Caroline Sadowska

Break Studios Contributing Writer

There are several ways to learn about how to lower potassium levels. You may need to do this if you are told you have high levels of potassium in your blood. This condition is also called hyperkalemia and can be the result of kidney failure or diabetes. For most people, part of the solution is working to find and control the underlying cause of high potassium. It is important to talk to your doctor about ways to control your potassium levels, but the following lifestyle changes can help you get started.

  1. Reduce red meat. Limiting the amount of red meat in your diet can help lower potassium levels. Replace it with lean protein sources like fish and turkey.
  2. Avoid foods that are high in potassium. Bananas, nuts, peas and tomatoes are all high in potassium. Get used to reading food labels and limiting the potassium in your diet. You may also want to cut out refined flour and white sugar.
  3. Eat garlic. Adding garlic to your diet, or adding a garlic supplement, can help lower potassium. If you're including it in your diet, aim for at least one clove each day. This is a natural way to regulate potassium levels in the body.
  4. Drink milk. Dairy can help to lower potassium levels in your body. Incorporate milk, yogurt and low fat cheeses into your diet. If you still struggle to get enough calcium, consider adding a supplement. A calcium supplement with vitamin D is especially effective as vitamin D helps promote calcium absorption.
  5. Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water is extremely important for people with high potassium levels. Aim for eight glasses of water each day and limit your caffeine intake. Water will help cleanse your body of toxins and help your body regulate your potassium level.
Posted on: Aug. 28, 2010