Effect of potassium depletion in normal males: an Apollo 15 simulation

In the course of Apollo 15, physiologic abnormalities, manifested by ectopic activity on the ECG and unusual alterations in excerise tolerance, occurred in the crew of the Lunar Excursion Module. These were associated with decreases in total body potassium, measured by 42K, of 10% and 15%. The possibility of inadequate potassium (K plus) intake existed. A simulation study was performed prior to Apollo 16, corresponding in duration to Apollo 15. Subjects endured the same sleep aberrations and caloric expenditure as the Apollo 15 astronauts. Subjects consumed a diet containing only 15 mEq/d of K plus during the entire 12 d of absolute bedrest. ECG was continuously monitored, body fluid compartments and total body K plus were measured at intervals by radionuclide methods, electrolyte balance was determined daily, and excercise and orthostatic tolerances were determined prior to and after bedrest. In spite of decreases in total body K plus measured by 42K of 14.5% and 10.5%, and by potassium balances of 3.3% and 6.5%, respectively, neither of the two subjects developed symptomatic hypokalemia. Minor ECG abnormalities were noted in one subject. Orthostatic and exercise tolerance showed only those changes expected as a result of bedrest. Muscle strength was unaffected. Study implications and reasons for discrepancies between K plus loss measured by balance techniques and 42K are reviewed.