How to Restore Potassium Levels With Gatorade

Written by Adam Cloe

08 July, 2011

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Potassium is a mineral that the body needs to function properly. Because it is electrically charged, potassium can be transported in and out of cells to change their electrical charge. For some cells, such as muscles and nerves, this proves necessary for them to function properly. You lose potassium from your body in a variety of ways, such as by sweating, and you can take Gatorade to replenish your potassium levels 1.

Check with your doctor to make sure you do not have any health problems which would prohibit Gatorade consumption 1. As MedlinePlus explains, kidney disease can cause your body to not excrete excess potassium well, which means that consuming Gatorade is not recommended for people with kidney problems as it could lead to dangerously high levels of potassium 1 2. Your doctor can also let you know if you have any other health problems that could cause an increased risk of developing too much or too little potassium in your body.

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Choose a variety of Gatorade 1. Gatorade has a number of different product lines, and the potassium content can vary depending on your selection 1. For example, one serving of Gatorade Prime 01 contains 35 milligrams of potassium, whereas one serving of Gatorade Recover 03 contains 95 milligrams of potassium, the Gatorade website explains 1. If you have recently undergone a strenuous workout that caused you to sweat profusely, the higher potassium mix may be better at correcting your potassium levels.

Consume Gatorade in moderation to replenish your potassium levels 1. Although it is safe to drink more than one serving of Gatorade, too much could cause gastric distress 1. It may also lead to high potassium levels, particularly if you have impaired kidney function

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Check yourself for the symptoms of dangerously low potassium levels. Low potassium levels, also known as hypokalemia, can cause muscle cramps, weakness, constipation and an abnormal heart rhythm. If you develop any of these symptoms, especially an irregular heartbeat, you may need a more rapid correction of your potassium levels than Gatorade can provide 1. An irregular heartbeat indicate a serious problem and requires medical attention.