The purpose of this Grand Rounds presentation is to review the potential benefits and harms of potassium intake on human health. Recent advances illuminating the physiology underlying the beneficial effects of potassium will be reviewed. In some patients, excess potassium intake may result in hyperkalemia; the risk factors for this electrolyte disorder will be reviewed, as well as management approaches. Understanding of these principles will guide the clinician in optimizing recommendations for potassium intake in different patient populations.

Protocol