Potassium is one of the key electrolytes essential for proper body function . It plays a fundamental role in maintaining water and electrolyte balance and proper cellular osmotic pressure. As the main intracellular cation, potassium is responsible for maintaining a stable cellular environment and maintaining the proper conditions for metabolic processes .

Potassium is essential for the proper functioning of muscles , including the heart muscle . It participates in the conduction of nerve impulses and in the mechanism of muscle contraction and relaxation, which determines the efficiency of the neuromuscular system. Adequate potassium levels support the maintenance of normal heart rhythm and help prevent nerve conduction disorders.

Additionally, potassium participates in the regulation of blood pressure , supporting the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. It acts as an antagonist to sodium, helping to maintain proper electrolyte balance and supporting the removal of excess sodium from the body . Potassium affects acid-base balance and supports the functioning of enzymes responsible for energy metabolism.

Adequate potassium intake is particularly important during periods of increased demand , such as intense physical activity, stress, excessive sweating, or a diet low in fruits and vegetables . Maintaining adequate potassium levels supports overall body performance, helps reduce fatigue, and promotes proper cell function.

Potassium gluconate is a salt of potassium and gluconic acid (a glucose derivative), containing on average about 16-17% potassium ions (K⁺) .

Potassium gluconate is an organic form of potassium that is well-tolerated by the stomach and is gentler than potassium chloride. Gluconate can be used in cases of sensitive stomachs.

In case of large potassium deficits and when long-term use is necessary, gluconate is the best form for long-term supplementation.

Potassium must not be combined with:

• some drugs (spironolactone, eplerenone, amiloride, triamterene) – this may result in a dangerous increase in potassium and, consequently, arrhythmia,
• medicines for high blood pressure and heart (without medical supervision): ACE inhibitors (e.g. ramipril, enalapril), sartans (e.g. losartan, telmisartan), some beta-blockers because they reduce the excretion of potassium by the kidneys,
• in case of kidney diseases: kidney failure, kidney stones (some types), reduced filtration (eGFR ↓).

In case of potassium overdose, consult a doctor if the following effects occur:

• heart palpitations
• muscle weakness
• tingle
• nausea
• feeling of the heart “skipping”.

The phenomenon of “hidden potassium” refers to potassium that we do not associate with a potassium-rich diet, but which may be consumed unconsciously, often in large amounts.

Where is potassium “hiding”?

• table salt substitutes – often instead of NaCl they contain potassium chloride (KCl), 1 teaspoon can contain up to 2000-2500 mg of potassium, it is very easy to overdose, especially in case of kidney disease or blood pressure medications.
• electrolytes and “sports” drinks – several servings a day can provide a large dose of potassium.
• tomato products : concentrate, passata, dried tomatoes contain potassium concentrated in a small volume.
• highly processed foods:

1. E508 – potassium chloride
2. E340 – potassium phosphate
3. E202 – potassium sorbate
4. E450–E452 – potassium diphosphates/polyphosphates

• cold cuts, processed cheese, ready meals
• “Fit”, “low sodium”, “salt-free” – sodium salt replaced by potassium.

The absorption of potassium (K) in the body depends on several important factors, including the chemical form of potassium, the state of the digestive tract, and the balance of other electrolytes. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a key role in nerve conduction, muscle function (including the heart), maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, and regulating blood pressure.

The chemical form of potassium is important for its absorption:

• Gluconate, citrate, aspartate, potassium lactate – organic forms of potassium, characterized by good bioavailability and gentle effect on the digestive system, especially recommended for long-term supplementation.

Intestinal health affects potassium absorption:
Digestive disorders, chronic diarrhea, intestinal inflammation or diseases that impair absorption can lead to increased potassium loss and a decrease in its level in the body.