Potassium

[FishDiver]

I read a post on SB that mentioned using "Lite Salt" as a potassium supplement in drinking water. This product is a 50/50 mix of sodium and potassium chloride and marketed as an aid to reduce sodium intake. I thought the idea was genius and I have been adding 1/8-1/4 tablespoon of salt to 2 liters of water for pre and post dive hydration.

I have been using this for a few months now and it seems to help, particularly in my tolerance of large amounts of fluids. It occurred to me that the efficacy as a potassium replacement in my case is purely theoretical.

The idea looks great on paper. Is the potassium from this source actually available to the body?

 

[TSandM]

The potassium is available to the body, but almost certainly unnecessary.

Potassium is present in fairly large quantities in almost anything you eat. Potassium deficiency is extremely unusual in people not experiencing volume losses like vomiting or diarrhea, and who are not on diuretics.

Although people often posit potassium deficiency as a reason for underwater cramps, it is highly unlikely that it's often a significant factor.