What Diet Should Be Followed To Ensure Potassium And Sodium Stay In The Healthy Range?

Posted on Mon, 9 Dec 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 9 Dec 2013 Answered on

Mon, 30 Dec 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I take triamterene-hctz (37.5/25) for hbp. I am also on a high ptotein low carb diet which does not provide enough potassium. How much potassium and sodium do you suggest i eat a day (not supplement) to ensure my serum potassium and sodium stay in the healthy range. From what i understand the body does not make its own potassium. My last labs were 2 weeks ago and my potassium was 3.5 and sodium 135.

Answered by Dr. Anantharamakrishnan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer: Repeat lab after 2 weeks Detailed Answer: Hi friend, Welcome to Health Care Magic The average requirement for us in a day is approximately 2.5 Grams of Sodium / 5 grams of potassium Your levels are still normal / in the lower range, though You may not need to supplement or change your diet as it is / have the tests repeated after 2 weeks / A dietician will be help in long run Good luck Take care Wishing all well God bless

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar