Low Potassium Foods for Managing Hyperkalemia
Foods containing less than 100 mg of potassium per serving or less than 3% Daily Value are considered low in potassium and should be prioritized for individuals needing to reduce potassium intake. 1
Low Potassium Food Options
Fruits
- Apples
- Berries (blueberries, strawberries)
- Cranberries
- Grapes
- Pineapple
Vegetables
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Cucumber
- Green beans
- Lettuce
- Onions
- Peppers
Grains
- White rice
- White bread
- Pasta
- Cereals (rice-based)
Proteins
- Eggs
- Some fish (in limited amounts)
Food Preparation Techniques to Reduce Potassium
Certain cooking methods can significantly reduce the potassium content of foods:
- Presoaking root vegetables: This technique effectively lowers potassium content by 50% to 75% 1
- Cooking in water: Boiling vegetables and discarding the water removes significant amounts of potassium 2
- Double-cooking method: Soak sliced vegetables, drain, then cook in fresh water and drain again for maximum potassium reduction
Foods to Avoid (High Potassium)
The following foods are high in potassium (>200-250 mg per serving or >6% DV) and should be limited or avoided 1:
- Bananas
- Oranges
- Potatoes and potato chips
- Tomato products
- Legumes and lentils
- Yogurt
- Chocolate
- Avocados (710 mg per cup) 3
- Spinach (840 mg per cup when boiled) 3
Important Considerations
Food Labeling
- Potassium content is not required on food labels
- When listed, foods with <3% DV are low in potassium
- If potassium is not listed, it doesn't mean the food is potassium-free 1
Salt Substitutes
- Avoid salt substitutes as they typically contain potassium chloride
- These can cause dangerous hyperkalemia in susceptible individuals 1
Special Populations
- Patients with chronic kidney disease require stricter potassium management
- Those taking potassium-sparing medications (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, certain diuretics) need careful monitoring 3
When to Seek Medical Attention
If hyperkalemia persists despite dietary adherence, investigate non-dietary causes such as:
- Medication effects (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDs)
- Metabolic acidosis
- Constipation
- Inadequate dialysis (if applicable)
- Tissue breakdown
- Infection 1
For severe hyperkalemia, medical treatment with potassium binders may be necessary in addition to dietary management.