The Importance of Potassium

Some people with heart failure need to eat foods high in potassium. Potassium helps maintain the normal function of the heart and nervous system. Many people with heart failure take a diuretic (water pill) to help their kidneys make more urine and get rid of excess fluid. This can cause potassium loss.

Doctors sometimes prescribe a potassium supplement and recommend eating more potassium-rich foods.
Dried fruits: raisins, prunes, apricots, dates 
Fresh fruits: bananas, strawberries, watermelon, cantaloupe, oranges 
Fresh vegetables: beets, greens, spinach, peas, tomatoes, mushrooms 
Dried vegetables: beans, peas 
Fresh meats: turkey, fish, beef 
Fresh juices: orange 
Canned juices: grapefruit, prune, apricot
Every situation is different, so ask your healthcare team what's needed. People who have kidney problems or take certain medications may risk having potassium build up in their systems. And too much potassium can be just as harmful as too little.

www.americanheart.org