Hyperkalemia is a condition
characterized by a high level of potassium in your blood. Potassium is a
mineral that plays many roles in your body's functions, but a level
that is higher than normal, which is anything over 5.2 millimoles per
liter, may cause health complications. With the rise in popularity of
green juices and smoothies, you may be concerned that your potassium
level will increase, as many green vegetables contain the nutrient. If
you experience any of the symptoms of hyperkalemia after adding green
vegetable juices to your diet, contact your doctor.Hyperkalemia
The most common cause of hyperkalemia is kidney disease,
but Addison's disease, burns, Type 1 diabetes, alcoholism and certain
medications are other potential causes. In addition, a high intake of
potassium, through food and supplements, may also result in a higher
than normal level. Leafy green vegetables are often included in juice
drinks or smoothies. A high intake of these beverages may contribute to
hyperkalemia, but aren't likely to be the cause. Symptoms of the
condition include heartbeat irregularities, slow pulse and nausea. A
simple blood test can determine whether you need to reduce your
potassium intake.
Juicing
Juicing
green vegetables concentrates the nutrients in them because you consume
several servings in one glass. In addition, eating raw vegetables
increases your intake of nutrients -- including potassium -- many of
which are lost during the cooking process. If you are on potassium
supplements, talk with your doctor about the safety of including green
juices in your meal plan.
Green Vegetables
The
most commonly juiced green vegetables are the leafy ones. Spinach,
kale, collard greens, fennel, endive, escarole, cabbage, mustard greens
and most types of lettuce are some that appear in many green juicing
recipes. Some of these recipes include fruit, which works to counteract
the bitter taste that many leafy greens have. Many types of fruit also
contain high levels of potassium, increasing the risk of getting too
much when you drink green vegetable juices regularly.
Potassium Content
Knowing
the potassium content of green vegetables allows you to create green
juices without elevating your potassium level to a dangerous zone. A cup
of raw spinach contains 167 milligrams, a cup of mustard greens has 198
milligrams, kale contains 300 milligrams and lettuce has about 108
milligrams per cup. The daily recommended intake for potassium is 4,700
milligrams and, in most cases, drinking green juice won't be enough to
cause your levels to become too high. However, if you take supplements,
eat other foods high in potassium or have a health condition, green
juices may not be the right choice for you, despite the health benefits.
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