Potassium
K · last AI check: 2026-07-19
In short
An electrolyte that balances the action of sodium. Found mainly in vegetables, fruit and legumes.
What it does in the body
The sentences below are officially authorised EU health claims.
Potassium contributes to the maintenance of normal blood pressure EU health claim
Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 of 16 May 2012, Annex — list of permitted health claims · register entry: 321 · EFSA opinion: 2010;8(2):1469
Condition of use on a product: The product is at least a source of Potassium.
How much you need
| Country / organisation | Group | Value | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| NASEM (US/CA) | adult men | AI Adequate intake — an approximate value used when data are insufficient to set an exact requirement (RDA). | |
| WHO | adults | — A value not tied to one jurisdiction — an indicative compilation from several sources. | |
| Philippines | adults | AI Adequate intake — an approximate value used when data are insufficient to set an exact requirement (RDA). | |
| Switzerland | adults | AI Adequate intake — an approximate value used when data are insufficient to set an exact requirement (RDA). | |
| United Kingdom | adults | RNI Reference nutrient intake — the RDA equivalent in WHO/FAO, UK and Philippine terminology. |
Reference values from different countries are not directly comparable — they differ in definition and age group. How to read reference values →
Every value states its source — click it to see the document, location and link.Data and content are prepared and cross-checked against source documents by several independent AI models. They have not been audited by a human editor.Before citing a value, check it in the source document — verification is automated (AI), not editorial.
Worth knowing
Potassium and sodium play opposing roles in fluid and electrolyte balance, which is why WHO recommendations address not only separate thresholds for each but also the ratio between the two elements in the diet. The claim about potassium's effect on blood pressure can be found above, in the “what it does in the body” section — where we give its authorised wording together with the legal basis.
Unlike sodium, of which there is too much in the typical Western diet, potassium is consumed in many countries at levels below what is recommended — mainly because its main sources are vegetables, fruit and legume seeds.
Where to find it
bananas · potatoes (with skin) · legumes · tomatoes · green leafy vegetables
This material is for information and education. It does not replace advice from a doctor or dietitian. For health matters, consult a qualified medical professional.