Why should someone supplement Potassium? Potassium is an essential component to maintaining your healthy heart, muscle function, kidneys, nerves, and the digestive system. While certain foods naturally will adequately provide the potassium levels most women and men need, there are indeed select persons who must have much more than what can be obtained from the typical diet. A potassium supplement is necessary for those who have temporary or permanent ailments that rid their body of potassium, such as: vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, diuretic use, kidney disease, and GI disease (gastrointestinal disease) and from having fluids depleted (heat stroke, sweat, dehydration, diarrhea, etc.), from vomiting (the 24 hour flu, bulimia, as a side effect to another ailment), or because of having a disease, like G.I. disease, etc. Potassium supplements commonly are seen as a mandatory measure to replace or retard or prohibit potassium deficiency problems.

At what time should you take your potassium supplements? The timing of your potassium supplements is depends on the specific potassium you have been prescribed, as the quantity consumed and the frequency varies greatly. That said, however, potassium supplements often are taken 2 to 4 times a day, and often with food. Your friendly, neighborhood doctor will help you if you have any question or trouble creep up regarding your supplements.

How should one best take a potassium supplement? You should always carefully read your prescription bottles for specific to that supplement, instructions. Both tablets and capsules should be taken in original form; avoid chewing, if at all possible. That will not be an option for everybody. Some people who experience difficulty swallowing tablets may have difficulty doing otherwise, that is alright. Do what you must do to safely swallow your supplements. If your potassium is in liquid, granule, effervescent tablet or powder make sure you completely mix your potassium in water, before drinking. Drinking in cold water can help in covering up unfriendly flavors, or including your favorite fruit juice to your glass helps make your potassium much easier on your tongue. Whichever form your potassium supplement is in, taking them with 8 ounces of water or a combination with juice is what is most recommended.