Consuming dietary potassium can bring down high blood pressure (hypertension)

Hypertension is the leading cause of cardiovascular diseases worldwide.  In addition to consuming dietary potassium, eating less sodium, eating healthy food and doing exercise regularly also helps in reducing high blood pressure. The recommended daily intake of potassium for an average adult is about 4,700 milligrams per day except for those who have hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia means you have too much potassium in your blood. It is very important to seek medical advice before embarking on the use of dietary potassium or potassium supplements if you have been diagnosed with hyperkalemia or kidney problems.

Numerous studies have confirmed the role potassium plays in bringing down hypertension. A study conducted by Houston MC on The importance of potassium in managing hypertension confirmed the role of potassium in lowering blood pressure in both hypertensive and non-hypertensive individuals.
The American Heart Association describes potassium as the only one component of a well-rounded plan for blood pressure health.

To see the list of some foods that contain potassium, click here.