What Type of Foods Don't Have Potassium?

Potassium, an abundant mineral in fruits and vegetables, promotes the healthy functioning of cells, muscles and the nervous system. It also helps to prevent excess fluid retention, also known as "bloating."

Expert Insight

A person may be instructed by his doctor to reduce potassium intake for a variety of reasons, including reducing blood pressure.

Types

Potassium Chloride Vs. Potassium Gluconate

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Food types that contain little or no potassium mostly include oils and sugar-free beverages or candies. Water has no potassium.

No Potassium

Foods that contain no potassium include cornstarch and baking powder; candies such as M&Ms and gumdrops; low-calorie carbonated beverages such as diet or club soda; powdered drink mixes containing the artificial sweetener aspartame; vegetable, canola, peanut, sunflower and soybean oils; shortening and lard.

Very Little Potassium

Low Phosphorus, Potassium & Sodium Menus

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Foods that contain very little potassium include distilled alcohol such as whiskey, rum, vodka or gin; ginger ale and other soda pop; margarine; olives; cheese; plain white rice; sugar cookies; honey; garlic; onions and tomatoes.

Warning

An excess or depletion of potassium can be dangerous. As potassium is normally regulated by the liver, if not functioning properly, high potassium levels can cause one to experience an irregular heartbeat or possibly go into cardiac arrest. The first signs of a potassium depletion include numbness or weakness.