A
potassium-rich diet has several cardiovascular and renal health benefits; however, it is not recommended for patients with advanced
chronic kidney disease or
end-stage kidney disease because of the risk of life-threatening
hyperkalemia. To assess the strength of evidence supporting
potassium intake restriction in
chronic kidney disease, the medical literature was searched looking for the current recommended approach and for evidence in support for such an approach. There is a lack of strong evidence supporting intense restriction of
dietary potassium intake. There are several ways to reduce
potassium intake without depriving the patient from fruits and vegetables, such as identifying hidden sources of
potassium (processed food and preservatives) and soaking or boiling food to remove
potassium. An individualized and gradual reduction of
dietary potassium intake in people at risk of
hyperkalemia is recommended. The current
potassium dietary advice in
chronic kidney disease needs to be reevaluated, individualized, and gradually introduced.