[Mmckellen]

When I did Atkins years ago, it was recommended to supplement with potassium since induction and maybe beyond might be insufficient in that particular mineral. I haven't heard the same about SB, but lately every time I go to the dr. my blood pressure is about 10 points higher on either end (from 117/70 to 126/85). I've made no other changes in my diet/lifestyle other than positive ones and my blood pressure was always on the low side my entire life so far. I haven't had leg cramps or anything like that which would be physical symptoms of a potassium deficiency. But the increase in my bp is consistent with starting the SB way of living. I do have bloodwork coming up that will test for a vitamin D deficiency - is it possible to test for a potassium deficiency? Or any other thoughts as to whether this could be connected to SB? I know the increase is not radical, but a steady increase in bp is not something I want to be complacent about.

[asphyxia63]

If they do a routine blood chemistry test called a basic metabolic profile (bmp) it wil give you your potassium level, along with a few other analytes like glucose and some enzymes related to your liver and kidneys. They can also just test your electrolytes which are sodium and potassium, but a bmp will give more info. Did your doctor seem concerned about your blood pressure? did they think it had something to do with your potassium or are you guessing?

[Mmckellen]

No he wasn't worried, it's just that I'm obsessed with my health/blood stats so I monitor all these things closely. It's the change that I am curious about, rather than the number (although these days "they" say anything over 120/80 is cause for concern).

[nanjmc]

My blood pressure was high when I started SDB. Usually around 144/85, it's one of the reasons I decided to lose the excess 20lbs. With SBD its has dropped to the 130's/low 80's. I am not retaining water like I used to on a high carb diet so I am sure that has helped. However I had real fatigue for months since starting and from my reading I assume it was from low potassium. Recently I have started having an avocado almost every day, using morton lite salt (potassium) and on occasion drinking V8 juice (lots of potassium). As much of the literature suggests I have also started taking 100 mg of CQ10 per day. I do feel much better.

[Mmckellen]

I do take CQ10 but maybe I will try that potassium salt and I really do salt my food a lot.

[asphyxia63]

Also, sodium and potassium have an inverse relationship... So when ones goes up the other goes down. So I would think increasing salt would decrease potassium?