Types of Potassium

Hello All,

Today’s blog is about the different types of potassium. Many individuals with Periodic Paralysis take potassium, but many do not nor should they. It is best to remember that not all people with PP actually need to take potassium supplements. Many of us shift only in normal ranges and other have Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis so if we take potassium it causes us to go into paralysis. Still others of us shift high and low, so we should not take it unless we know we are low and know it for sure and monitor it closely. Potassium is a very individual issue for each of us. The following is from our book for those who do need to take it.

Types of Potassium

When considering which type of potassium to use, it is important to understand the most common types; potassium bicarbonate, potassium citrate and potassium chloride. Potassium bicarbonate is a salty substance with no color or smell and it neutralizes acidity. Potassium citrate is also a salty substance. It is potassium bicarbonate, which has been combined with citric acid for faster absorption. It reduces acidity. Potassium chloride is also a salty substance created from a combination of potassium and chlorine. It will increase the acidity in the body. ^{62, 63, 64}

It comes in many forms which include, salts, powders, liquid, and tablets. Some tablets may be released over time  or some  are easily dissolved. Liquid forms need to be diluted in water. The soluble tablets ad powder or salt forms need to be dissolved in water. Tablets should be swallowed whole with  8 ounces of water after meals. ⁶⁵

How does someone know which type and form is best for him or her?  We are not medical doctors so we avoid offering advice about the type of potassium supplement to use. That needs to be discussed with your trusted medical advisor. However, that being said, the various forms and types are discussed here for a better understanding and decision-making.

After researching and knowing that I have chronic metabolic acidosis, I chose to use potassium bicarbonate because it neutralizes the acidity in my body. I use the salt form because and I can dilute it in water for quick absorption. I take it when my potassium levels are low. I must be careful with the amount I take because I easily swing into high potassium levels.

Although most individuals with Periodic Paralysis will get prescriptions for potassium, some may chose or need to purchase their own potassium supplements. If you purchase your own form be sure to use natural sources of potassium from a reliable natural organic source. The businesses with quality supplements which we trust for our needs can be found on our website the Periodic Paralysis Network. ⁵⁹

59. Periodic Paralysis Network. (March 2013). Periodic Paralysis. Retrieved from: http://www.periodicparalysisnetwork.com

62. Wikipedia. (March 2013). Potassium bicarbonate. Retrieved from:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potassium_bicarbonate

63. Wikipedia. (February 2013). Potassium citrate. Retrieved from:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potassium_citrate

64. Wikipedia. (March 2013).  Potassium chloride. Retrieved from:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potassium_chloride

65. Mayo Clinic. (November 2011).  Potassium Supplement (Oral Route, Parenteral Route). Retrieved from:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602373