Effect of potassium rich dietary sources on serum potassium levels among hospitalized hypokalemic patients

Original Research Article

Abstract

Hypokalemia is defined as a serum potassium level below 3.5 mmol/L. It is a common electrolyte imbalance observed in hospitalized patients, especially those receiving diuretics, insulin or experiencing gastrointestinal losses. While pharmaceutical potassium supplementation is standard, it may lead to side effects or may not be feasible in all patients. There is a growing interest in food-based interventions as a safer, more tolerable alternative. Therefore present study was planned with the aim to assess the effectiveness of potassium-rich dietary sources, including tender coconut water and individualized hospital diets, in improving serum potassium levels among hospitalized hypokalemia patients. This observational study was conducted on 30 adult inpatients diagnosed with hypokalemia at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital, Jaipur. Patients received potassium-rich dietary interventions based on their nutritional intake route - oral or enteral. Daily dietary potassium intake and serum potassium levels were monitored over a period. Results showed a progressive increase in serum potassium levels. The mean serum potassium increased from 2.80 mmol/L on Day 0 to 3.90 mmol/L by Day 2. Patients receiving full oral diets showed the highest potassium intake and the most significant improvement in serum potassium levels. These findings support the integration of food-based potassium strategy into routine hospital nutrition care, especially when pharmacological treatments are limited. Keywords: Hypokalemia, potassium, diet, electrolyte imbalance