Hi Cindy Sue,

The reason we encourage potassium supplementation here is that at the commencement of low carbing, a natural diuresis occurs which leaves us with low potassium levels.

In the absence of kidney disease or certain blood pressure medications, this level of potassium supplementation is not harmful.

We encourage people to either use potassium salt or take over the counter supps. These OTC tablets have 99mg or less, unlike prescription potassium which generally contains 600mg. I agree that 600mg tablets should not be taken without medical advice.

Most of us refer to the advice given by the Drs Eades in "Protein Power" - they suggest continuing supps until maintenance, in doses from 100 to 400mg per day (400mg in the first few weeks).

Let me repeat - potassium supplements should not be taken if one is taking certain medications for high blood pressure or certain diuretics. Check with your pharmacist to see if extra potassium will be a problem

For everyone else, potassium supps are not just totally safe, they are desirable.

Rosebud (ICU RN)