Potassium citrate (also known as tripotassium citrate) is a potassium salt of citric acid with the molecular formula C6H5K3O7
Contents
Uses
Preventing certain types of kidney stones. It also may be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Potassium citrate is a urinary alkalinizing agent. It works by neutralizing some of the acid in the urine, which helps reduce the formation of crystals.
As a food additive, potassium citrate is used to regulate acidity and is known as E number E332.
Benefits
- Lowers blood pressure: Potassium plays an important role in controlling blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association. It works with sodium to maintain water balance in the body and helps lower blood pressure in the body, according to Colorado State University. Increased potassium may increase the amount of sodium the body excretes causing a protective effect against hypertension.
A study published in the July 2005 Harvard Medical School “Family Health Guide” noted that potassium citrate had the same “blood-pressure-lowering effects” as potassium chloride. The study tested 14 people with stage 1 hypertension. They gave 7 people potassium chloride and 7 people potassium citrate. They found each group had similar beneficial effects on hypertension. They concluded that increased potassium intake does not have to be specific to be effective. - Prevents kidney stones: Potassium citrate is used to prevent certain types of kidney stones. It makes the urine more alkaline and neutralizes some of the acid in the urine, which helps to reduce crystal formation. A study by J He Feng, research fellow and professor, published in the September 2001 issue of the “British Medical Journal,” noted that potassium citrate reduces calcium excretion, causing a positive calcium balance. The study concluded that potassium reduces the risk of kidney stones.
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Stroke: The biggest causal factor for strokes is high blood pressure. Potassium citrate reduces blood pressure and in turn reduces the risk of stroke. A study published in the September 2001 “British Medical Journal” found reduced risk of stroke from potassium even when blood pressure was matched for both high and low intakes supporting the conclusion of a direct protective effect from potassium on strokes.
- Osteoporosis: Potassium increases calcium retention by reducing calcium excretion, which may be associated a longer lasting higher bone mass. A study by SA New and colleagues published in the January 2000 “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” tested 62 healthy women aged 45 to 55 and found a direct link between higher intakes of magnesium, potassium and alcohol were associated with higher total bone mass.
Cautions
- Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
Diarrhea or loose bowel movements; nausea; stomach pain; upset stomach; vomiting.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); black, tarry stools; confusion; severe stomach pain; tingling of hands or feet; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; weakness.
Interactions
We currently have no information for potassium citrate Interactions.
Other names
n/a
References
Source: Live Strong, http://www.livestrong.com/article/242302-what-are-the-benefits-of-potassium-citrate/
Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potassium_citrate