Potassium in diet

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Diet - potassium

The Food and Nutrition Center of the Institute of Medicine has established the following recommended dietary intakes for potassium:

Infants

• 0 - 6 months: 0.4 grams a day (g/day)
• 7 - 12 months: 0.7 g/day

Children and Adolescents

• 1 - 3 years: 3 g/day
• 4 - 8 years: 3.8 g/day
• 9 - 13 years: 4.5 g/day
• 14 - 18 years: 4.7 g/day

Adults

• Age 19 and older: 4.7 g/day

Women who are producing breast milk need slightly higher amounts. Ask your doctor what amount is best for you.

Persons who are being treated for hypokalemia need potassium supplements. The doctor will develop a supplementation plan based on each individual's specific needs.

Review Date: 12/22/2005
Reviewed By: William McGee, M.D., M.H.A., Assistant Professor of Medicine and Surgery, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, and Chairman, Nutrition Committee, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.