POTASSIUM

This mineral, found in a large variety of foods, plays an important role in keeping the heartbeat regular and muscles working. High potassium levels can be very dangerous, but usually only in advanced kidney disease. Symptoms can include weak muscles, irregular heartbeat or a heart attack. Since many diabetics depend on foods such as whole grains that contain potassium, restriction of this mineral can be modified to meet the particular dietary needs of the CKD patient. It is important to note that many salt substitutes often contain large amounts of potassium and should also be avoided.

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