Taking Blood Pressure Meds? DASH Diet Likely Safe for Potassium Levels

The well-known DASH diet does not significantly affect potassium levels in adults taking certain blood pressure medications. Tatiana Maksimova/Moment/Getty Images A new study reports that the DASH diet does not significantly increase potassium levels in people taking high blood pressure medication. Researchers said that the diet doesn’t appear to cause significant changes in kidney function. Experts say the DASH diet offers many health benefits, but they recommend that people gradually integrate it into their daily lives. People who adhere to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet do not experience significant changes in potassium levels while taking blood pressure medications or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs, according to a new study. Researchers also reported that people taking these medications do not experience significant changes in their kidney function. Both types of medications are known to increase potassium levels. High potassium levels can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition that can cause issues with the heart rhythm. People with impaired kidney function due to chronic kidney disease are at increased risk of hyperkalemia. “The DASH diet is…

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