[Hypokalemia can accelerate the development of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease]

Hypokalaemia is known to precipitate cardiac arrhythmias. Hypokalaemia can also give rise to adverse cardiovascular effects not related to arrhythmias.

This article presents an evaluation of the relevant literature describing adverse effects of hypokalaemia and beneficial effects of potassium supplementation on cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease.

Diuretics-induced hypokalaemia may offset the beneficial effects of blood pressure reduction on cardiovascular events. In several epidemiological studies high intake of potassium in the food was associated with reduced risk of developing a stroke. Fruit and vegetables contain potassium, and an inverse correlation between intake of these nutrients and stroke has been described. In spontaneously hypertensive rats, potassium supplementation in the diet markedly reduced the risk of death, brain haemorrhage and infarct. Potassium reduces oxidative stress and proliferation of smooth muscle cells, i.e. factors involved in the development of atherosclerosis, and may have an antithrombotic effect.