Dr. Whelton pooled the results of 33 random, controlled trials with 2,609 participants that focused on the effects of potassium supplements. Potassium is an essential mineral and primary electrolyte.
Potassium plays an important role in nerve function and cellular integrity.
Researchers suggest getting potassium through the diet first with six servings of potassium-rich foods every day or by taking a supplement. If you are taking blood pressure medication, be sure to follow the advice of your physician before taking a potassium supplement because it may help reduce reliance on blood pressure medication or diuretics. As reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, potassium appeared to be particularly effective in people who consume a lot of salt and amongst African Americans. Health care professionals suggest that the best way to control blood pressure is to lose weight, cut back on salt, drink alcoholic beverages in moderation, exercise and maintain a low-fat diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly those which are rich in potassium. The researchers recommend that people try to get potassium through their diet or with 250 milligrams of a potassium supplement.