Human Nutrition 3(3+0)

Lesson 40 : Potassium

Requirements & Toxicity

Requirements
The daily intake of potassium from the diet and drinking water may range from 2 to 4 g depending on the composition of the diet. All foods are rich sources of potassium and hence potassium deficiency is not likely to occur in normal subjects.

The minimum Recommended Daily Allowance of Potassium is :-

• Adult – 2 g/day.
• Children – 1.5 g/day.

Toxicity
Excess intake of potassium can cause high concentration of the element in blood, disturbances in heart and kidney function, and alterations in fluid balance. Fatalities may result when high levels of potassium in the bloodstream cause heart attacks.