Potassium is an integral mineral that keeps your nervous and cardiovascular systems functioning. However, excess of it can result in conditions such as hyperkalemia. If your potassium levels are high, you might need to review your food intake to manage this condition effectively. High potassium levels in the body over a prolonged period can lead to serious health complications. Here is a list of food items to be avoided if you are diagnosed with hyperkalemia. Dried apricots Dried apricots are very high in potassium and must be avoided at all costs. Half a cup of dried apricot contains 755.3 milligrams of potassium. There are other dried fruits too which are rich in this mineral and should also be avoided. Half a cup of prunes has about 700 milligrams of this element, whereas the same quantity of raisins has 618 milligrams of potassium. Beans and lentils Food items such as beans may seem like a good option for energy and minerals but they can likely be harmful for consumption to a person diagnosed with hyperkalemia. For example, just a handful of canned kidney beans might contain about 607 milligrams of potassium and, thus, should be avoided. However, you can reduce the effects of potassium in beans by soaking uncooked beans overnight and rinsing them thoroughly before cooking.

Hyperkalemia is when the body has high potassium levels. There are many ways to manage the condition, but the easiest method is to limit potassium intake. This means patients must follow a strict meal plan and choose foods wisely. Below, we have listed a few high-potassium foods to be avoided to manage the symptoms better. However, it is advisable to always check with a nutritionist or healthcare professional before making these meal changes. Bananas Fruits like bananas are high in many essential nutrients. They are chock full of fiber and also contain loads of vitamins. However, bananas are extremely high in potassium, so those with hyperkalemia should keep them out of their menu. The fruit can suddenly increase potassium levels in the body, aggravating the symptoms. Other fruits like melons, oranges, nectarines, mangoes, papayas, dried figs, and prunes can have similar effects. Instead, one can consider apples, blueberries, pears, grapefruits, and strawberries, as these have low levels of potassium. Still, it is essential to limit their intake. Spinach Spinach is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. A healthy meal would typically include tons of veggies, even spinach. But for those with hyperkalemia, it is best avoided. This vegetable can lead to high potassium levels in the body, triggering symptoms like muscle cramping and irregular cardiac activity.