Daijiworld Media Network - Massachusetts

Massachusetts, Sep 16: Heart failure and arrhythmias continue to affect millions globally, prompting researchers to explore simple ways to support heart function. One nutrient gaining attention is potassium, known for regulating blood pressure and maintaining proper electrical activity in the heart. While both low and high potassium levels can be dangerous, recent research suggests maintaining potassium at the higher end of the normal range may benefit high-risk patients.

The POTCAST trial

Published in The New England Journal of Medicine (2025), the POTCAST trial tested whether slightly increasing potassium levels could prevent serious heart rhythm problems. The study included over 1,200 patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) or combination devices. Participants had potassium levels at or below 4.3 mmol/L (normal but low).

They were randomly assigned to:

• Standard care
• High-normal potassium group: Potassium levels raised to 4.5–5.0 mmol/L using dietary adjustments and supplements.

After three years of follow-up, the high-normal potassium group experienced a 24% reduction in life-threatening arrhythmias, heart failure events, and device interventions compared to the standard care group. Importantly, dangerous high or low potassium levels were rare, and hospitalizations due to potassium imbalance were minimal.

Why it matters

The findings suggest that targeting higher-normal potassium levels may be a simple and cost-effective way to lower the risk of serious heart complications in high-risk patients. While further studies are needed for individuals without heart devices or with other forms of heart failure, this research opens the door to using potassium as a novel preventive strategy.

Caution: Potassium intake, whether through diet or supplements, should be guided by a healthcare professional, especially for people with kidney issues or those on certain medications.

Dietary sources of potassium

• Fruits: Bananas, oranges, cantaloupe
• Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, spinach, beets, carrots
• Dairy: Milk, yogurt

Recommended daily intake (NIH)

• Women (19–50 years): 2,600 mg (lactating: 2,500 mg)
• Men (19–50 years): 3,400 mg

The POTCAST trial highlights that a small adjustment in potassium levels may have a major impact on cardiovascular well-being, offering hope for millions at risk.