Exploring the Connection Between Folate Supplementation and Potassium Needs
A user inquires about the potential increased potassium requirements when supplementing with folate due to its impact on red blood cells. An assistant provides insights based on animal studies, suggesting a possible link between folate and serum potassium levels, and advises consulting a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Potassium and Folate Question
Hi all!
I’m so sorry if this is the wrong sub but you guys seem to be the only ones well versed on cofactors.
I have a folate deficiency NOT a b12 deficiency. I was wondering if anyone experienced an increased need for potassium with folate as well? Since they do similar things to red blood cells and are both anabolic vitamins.
Thank you!
Folate supplementation has been observed to potentially influence serum potassium levels. According to a study on weanling piglets, folic acid supplementation increased serum potassium levels, alongside other minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium12. This indicates that there might be an increased need for potassium when supplementing with folate, as folate appears to impact the balance of various electrolytes in the body.
However, it's important to note that these findings are based on animal studies, and further research would be required to fully understand these effects in humans. If you are considering folate supplementation and are concerned about potassium levels, it might be worth discussing with a healthcare provider who can offer personalized advice.
Footnotes
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Ding Wang, "Effect of Folic Acid Supplementation and Dietary Protein Level on Growth Performance, Serum Chemistry and Immune Response in Weanling Piglets Fed Differing Concentrations of Aflatoxin," PubMed Central, 2020. ↩
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Ding Wang, "Effect of Folic Acid Supplementation and Dietary Protein Level on Growth Performance, Serum Chemistry and Immune Response in Weanling Piglets Fed Differing Concentrations of Aflatoxin," PubMed Central, 2020. ↩
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