11 Best Potassium Supplements (2026) Reviewed
Potassium is one of the most critical minerals for human health, yet research suggests that over 90% of Americans don’t consume enough. This essential electrolyte plays a vital role in nerve signaling, muscle contraction, fluid balance, and heart function. While potassium-rich foods like bananas, potatoes, and leafy greens should form the foundation of your intake, many people benefit from supplementation—particularly those taking diuretics, experiencing frequent muscle cramps, or following certain dietary protocols like keto.
However, not all potassium supplements are created equal. The FDA limits over-the-counter potassium supplements to 99mg of elemental potassium per serving, which means quality, form, and absorption become crucial differentiating factors. After researching third-party testing results from organizations like ConsumerLab and USP, analyzing product formulations, and reviewing feedback from healthcare practitioners, we’ve identified the 11 best potassium supplements for various needs and budgets.
Our research methodology included cross-referencing products through ConsumerLab testing reports (which found some products deliver up to 2.5x their listed amounts), verifying manufacturing certifications, and evaluating different potassium forms for bioavailability and tolerability.
Table of Contents
- Quick Comparison Table
- Potassium Forms Explained
- Individual Product Reviews
- Buying Guide
- How to Take Potassium
- Potential Benefits
- Safety Considerations
- FAQ
- Bottom Line
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Form | Serving Size | Key Differentiator | Best For | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Encapsulations Potassium Citrate | Capsule | 200mg / capsule | Hypoallergenic, 2x standard dose | Sensitive individuals | 🏆 TOP PICK |
| NOW Foods Potassium Citrate | Capsule | 99mg / capsule | GMP certified, highly bioavailable | Most people | 🥇 Best Value |
| Thorne Potassium Citrate | Capsule | 99mg / capsule | NSF Certified for Sport | Athletes | 🥇 Best Premium |
| Nutricost Potassium Citrate | Capsule | 99mg / capsule | 500-count bottle, 3rd party tested | Budget buyers | 🥇 Best Budget |
| Nature Made Potassium Gluconate | Tablet | 90mg / tablet | USP Verified | Beginners | 🥇 Best for Trust |
| Life Enhancement Potassium Basics | Capsule | 1020mg / 2 capsules | Highest potency available | Those needing higher doses | 🥇 Best High Potency |
| NOW Foods Potassium Citrate Powder | Powder | 448mg / ¼ tsp | Flexible dosing, no capsules | Custom dosing needs | 🥇 Best Powder |
| BulkSupplements Potassium Citrate | Capsule | 99mg / capsule | 500-count, cGMP facility | Bulk buyers | |
| Nature’s Bounty Potassium | Caplet | 99mg / caplet | No artificial colors or flavors | Drugstore shoppers | |
| Solaray Potassium | VegCap | 99mg / capsule | Amino acid complex with herb base | Enhanced absorption | 🥇 Best Amino Acid Form |
| Solgar Potassium | Tablet | 99mg / tablet | 75+ years of quality, kosher | Vegan/kosher needs |
Potassium Forms: Which One Is Right for You?
Understanding the different forms of supplemental potassium helps you choose the right product for your needs. Each form has distinct characteristics affecting absorption, tolerability, and specific applications.
Potassium Citrate
Potassium citrate is considered one of the most bioavailable and well-tolerated forms. Research indicates it may help alkalinize urine, making it particularly beneficial for those concerned about kidney stone formation. The citrate form is less likely to cause gastrointestinal upset compared to other forms. This is often the recommended form for general supplementation.
Potassium Gluconate
Potassium gluconate is a gentler form that’s well-suited for those with sensitive stomachs. While it requires a larger compound weight to deliver the same amount of elemental potassium, it’s often found in drugstore brands and is generally well-tolerated. It’s a solid choice for beginners or those who have experienced digestive issues with other forms.
Potassium Bicarbonate
Potassium bicarbonate provides an alkalizing effect and is sometimes used for those seeking higher doses. Some research suggests it may support bone health by helping maintain proper acid-base balance. This form is often found in higher-potency formulations.
Potassium Amino Acid Complex
This form bonds potassium to amino acids like glycine for potentially enhanced absorption. Some manufacturers claim this improves bioavailability, though research is limited. It’s typically found in premium supplement lines.
Form Recommendations by Use Case
- General daily supplementation: Potassium citrate
- Sensitive stomachs: Potassium gluconate
- Kidney stone prevention: Potassium citrate (consult healthcare provider)
- Higher dose needs: Potassium bicarbonate
- Enhanced absorption: Amino acid complex
Individual Product Reviews
Pure Encapsulations Potassium Citrate — Best Overall
Pure Encapsulations delivers a premium hypoallergenic formula with double the standard potassium dose per capsule, making it ideal for those with allergies, sensitivities, or those seeking a cleaner formulation.
Pure Encapsulations has built its reputation on creating supplements free from unnecessary additives, and their potassium citrate is no exception. Each vegetarian capsule delivers 200mg of potassium—double what most competitors offer—using a highly bioavailable citrate form. The formula is certified gluten-free by GFCO and manufactured without common allergens including wheat, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, soy, dairy, fish, and shellfish.
What sets Pure Encapsulations apart is their commitment to purity. They use ascorbyl palmitate (vitamin C) as the only additional ingredient besides the vegetarian capsule, avoiding magnesium stearate and other flow agents that some consumers prefer to avoid. The brand is frequently recommended by healthcare practitioners and is a staple in functional medicine practices.
Key Specifications:
- 200mg potassium per capsule (as potassium citrate)
- 180 vegetarian capsules per bottle
- Hypoallergenic formula
- GFCO certified gluten-free
- No artificial additives or common allergens
Considerations: Higher price point than mass-market brands; capsules may be larger than some prefer.
NOW Foods Potassium Citrate — Best Value
NOW Foods combines excellent quality with an affordable price point, delivering GMP-certified potassium citrate that represents exceptional value for daily supplementation.
NOW Foods has been a family-owned supplement company since 1968, and their potassium citrate capsules exemplify their commitment to quality at reasonable prices. Each vegetarian capsule provides 99mg of elemental potassium from 310mg of potassium citrate, using one of the most bioavailable forms available.
The product carries multiple certifications that serious supplement users look for: NPA A-rated GMP certification, kosher certification, and vegan/vegetarian verification. NOW’s manufacturing facilities undergo third-party testing, and the company is transparent about their quality control processes. The product is free from major allergens and contains no artificial colors or preservatives.
Key Specifications:
- 99mg potassium per capsule (from potassium citrate)
- 180 vegetarian capsules per bottle
- NPA A-rated GMP certified
- Kosher, vegan, gluten-free
- Family-owned since 1968
Considerations: Standard 99mg dose may require multiple capsules for those needing higher intake.
Thorne Potassium Citrate — Best Premium/Athletes
Thorne’s NSF Certified for Sport formula is trusted by professional athletes and over 100 sports teams, making it the top choice for competitive athletes and those requiring the highest quality standards.
Thorne has established itself as the gold standard in professional sports nutrition, and their potassium citrate carries the NSF Certified for Sport designation—meaning it’s tested for over 200 substances banned by major athletic organizations. This certification makes it a safe choice for competitive athletes subject to drug testing.
Beyond sports certification, Thorne’s manufacturing processes are among the most rigorous in the industry. Their facilities are NSF registered and follow cGMP standards. The formula uses only the essential ingredients: potassium citrate with a hypromellose capsule and minimal additional ingredients. Thorne is the official partner of multiple U.S. National Teams and is trusted by over 100 professional sports teams.
Key Specifications:
- 99mg potassium per capsule (as potassium citrate)
- 90 capsules per bottle
- NSF Certified for Sport
- Used by 100+ professional sports teams
- No unnecessary additives or fillers
Considerations: Premium price; smaller bottle size means more frequent reordering.
Nutricost Potassium Citrate — Best Budget
Nutricost delivers an impressive 500-count bottle of third-party tested potassium citrate at a fraction of premium brand prices, making it the clear winner for budget-conscious buyers.
Nutricost has disrupted the supplement industry by offering quality products at dramatically lower prices, and their potassium citrate exemplifies this approach. The 500-capsule bottle provides over 16 months of daily supplementation at a cost that’s often less than premium brands charge for 90 capsules.
Despite the budget pricing, Nutricost doesn’t cut corners on quality. The product is manufactured in a GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility in the USA. Each batch undergoes third-party testing for purity and potency. The formula is non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free. Small, easy-to-swallow capsules make daily dosing convenient.
Key Specifications:
- 99mg potassium per capsule (from potassium citrate)
- 500 capsules per bottle
- Third-party tested
- GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free
Considerations: Less brand recognition than established names; capsules contain gelatin (not vegetarian).
Nature Made Potassium Gluconate — Best for Trust/Beginners
Nature Made’s USP Verified potassium gluconate offers pharmacist-recommended quality with third-party verification, making it the safest choice for those new to supplementation.
Nature Made consistently ranks as the #1 pharmacist-recommended vitamin and supplement brand, and their potassium gluconate carries the prestigious USP Verified mark. This means an independent third party (United States Pharmacopeia) has verified that the product contains what it claims, is made with good manufacturing practices, and will properly dissolve for absorption.
The gluconate form is particularly gentle on the stomach, making this a good starting point for those new to potassium supplementation. While each tablet provides 90mg of elemental potassium (from 550mg potassium gluconate), the gentle formulation means minimal digestive upset for most users.
Key Specifications:
- 90mg potassium per tablet (from 550mg potassium gluconate)
- 100 tablets per bottle
- USP Verified
- #1 Pharmacist recommended brand
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Considerations: Lower potassium per serving than citrate forms; tablets may be harder to swallow than capsules for some.
Life Enhancement Potassium Basics — Best High Potency
Life Enhancement’s formula delivers 1020mg of potassium per two-capsule serving—the highest potency option available—for those who need substantial supplementation under healthcare guidance.
For those who need more than standard 99mg doses, Life Enhancement’s Potassium Basics offers a unique solution. Using potassium bicarbonate, each two-capsule serving delivers 1020mg of elemental potassium—over 10 times what most supplements provide. This makes it suitable for individuals under healthcare supervision who require higher potassium intake.
Life Enhancement has been formulating supplements for over 35 years with a focus on evidence-based dosing. The bicarbonate form provides an alkalizing effect that some research suggests may support bone health. The product is manufactured in GMP-certified facilities in the USA with lab-tested ingredients.
Key Specifications:
- 1020mg potassium per 2-capsule serving (as potassium bicarbonate)
- 240 vegetarian capsules (120 servings)
- Made in USA in GMP-certified facility
- 35+ years in business
- Alkalizing bicarbonate form
Considerations: High dose requires healthcare provider guidance; must take with food to minimize stomach upset; larger capsule size.
NOW Foods Potassium Citrate Powder — Best Powder
NOW’s powder form offers maximum dosing flexibility and excellent value, allowing users to customize their intake and easily mix into beverages.
For those who prefer flexibility over convenience, NOW Foods’ potassium citrate powder provides approximately 448mg of potassium per quarter-teaspoon serving. This allows users to precisely adjust their dose and easily add potassium to smoothies, water, or other beverages without swallowing capsules.
The pure powder contains no additives—just potassium citrate. A 12-ounce container provides approximately 340 servings at the suggested dose, making it extremely cost-effective for long-term use. The powder dissolves reasonably well in liquids and has a slightly salty, alkaline taste that most find acceptable.
Key Specifications:
- 448mg potassium per ÂĽ teaspoon (from potassium citrate)
- 12-ounce container (~340 servings)
- 100% pure potassium citrate powder
- No additives or fillers
- GMP certified
Considerations: Requires measuring; slight taste may not appeal to everyone; should not exceed 2 servings per day without healthcare guidance.
BulkSupplements Potassium Citrate — Best Bulk Option
BulkSupplements offers straightforward potassium citrate in high-count bottles with minimal additives, perfect for those who want simplicity and value in larger quantities.
BulkSupplements has built its reputation on offering pure, no-frills supplements at wholesale-style pricing. Their potassium citrate capsules contain 99mg of potassium per capsule with minimal additional ingredients. The 500-count bottles provide exceptional value for long-term users.
Manufactured in a cGMP-compliant facility, each batch undergoes third-party testing at multiple stages of production. The company maintains transparency about their testing and manufacturing processes. While packaging is simpler than retail brands, the product quality meets the same standards.
Key Specifications:
- 99mg potassium per capsule (as potassium citrate)
- 500 capsules per bag
- cGMP-compliant facility
- Third-party tested at multiple stages
- Minimal additives
Considerations: Gelatin capsules (not vegetarian); no-frills packaging; resealable bag rather than bottle.
Nature’s Bounty Potassium — Best Drugstore Brand
Nature’s Bounty provides accessible, well-formulated potassium supplementation available at most pharmacies and grocery stores, making it convenient for those who prefer to shop locally.
As one of the most recognized supplement brands in America, Nature’s Bounty offers potassium gluconate that’s available virtually everywhere—from pharmacies to supermarkets to convenience stores. The vegetarian caplets provide 99mg of potassium in the gentle gluconate form.
The formula is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. It contains no gluten, sugar, or starch. Nature’s Bounty maintains laboratory-tested quality control and follows Good Manufacturing Practices. For those who prefer the convenience of picking up supplements during regular shopping trips, this is a reliable choice.
Key Specifications:
- 99mg potassium per caplet (as potassium gluconate)
- 100 vegetarian caplets per bottle
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Gluten-free formula
- Widely available at retail locations
Considerations: Not third-party verified like USP products; standard drugstore pricing isn’t as competitive as online options.
Solaray Potassium — Best Amino Acid Complex
Solaray’s unique formula combines potassium bound to amino acids with a supportive herb base, offering enhanced bioavailability and additional nutritive support.
Solaray takes a different approach by complexing potassium with amino acids rather than using standard salt forms. The company claims this improves absorption and utilization. Additionally, the formula includes a base of parsley, chamomile, and watercress for supplementary nutritive support—a unique feature among potassium supplements.
With over 50 years in the supplement industry, Solaray manufactures products in their own GMP-certified facility in Utah. Each product is lab-verified for potency and purity, and the company offers a 60-day money-back guarantee. The VegCaps are suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Key Specifications:
- 99mg potassium per VegCap (as potassium amino acid complex)
- 200 VegCaps per bottle
- Contains parsley, chamomile, and watercress base
- Lab-verified, manufactured in-house
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Considerations: Contains rice flour as filler; herb base may not appeal to those wanting pure potassium; amino acid complex absorption claims lack extensive research.
Solgar Potassium — Best Kosher/Vegan
Solgar’s 75+ year legacy of quality makes their vegan, kosher-certified potassium tablets a trusted choice for those with dietary restrictions requiring religious or ethical certification.
Solgar has been producing supplements since 1947, making them one of the oldest supplement companies in the United States. Their potassium tablets carry both kosher and vegan certifications, addressing the needs of consumers with specific dietary requirements. The 250-tablet bottle provides excellent value for this heritage brand.
The formula uses potassium gluconate in a tablet form that’s free from gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, yeast, sugar, sodium, and artificial ingredients. Solgar’s commitment to sustainability includes using recyclable amber glass bottles made from 50% recycled glass—a nice environmental consideration.
Key Specifications:
- 99mg potassium per tablet (as potassium gluconate)
- 250 tablets per bottle
- Kosher and vegan certified
- 75+ years of quality manufacturing
- Recyclable amber glass bottle
Considerations: Tablet form may be harder to swallow than capsules; contains dicalcium phosphate as filler.
Potassium Supplement Buying Guide
Key Quality Indicators
When shopping for potassium supplements, look for these markers of quality:
- Third-party testing: USP Verified, NSF Certified for Sport, or independent lab testing provides assurance that products contain what labels claim
- GMP certification: Good Manufacturing Practice certification indicates the facility follows quality production standards
- Transparent labeling: Clear disclosure of potassium form, elemental potassium amount, and all other ingredients
- Established brand reputation: Companies with long histories and professional recommendations tend to maintain consistent quality
Certifications That Matter
- USP Verified: Independent verification of purity, potency, and manufacturing quality
- NSF Certified for Sport: Essential for competitive athletes; tests for banned substances
- GMP Certified: Ensures consistent manufacturing standards
- GFCO Certified: Meaningful for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity
Red Flags to Avoid
- Products claiming doses significantly above 99mg per serving without bicarbonate form
- Lack of any third-party testing or certifications
- Proprietary blends that don’t disclose potassium amount
- Unusually low prices from unknown brands without testing verification
- Products with many unnecessary fillers or artificial ingredients
Form Selection Guide
- Choose capsules if you want convenient dosing and easy swallowing
- Choose tablets if you prefer traditional pills and don’t mind slightly harder swallowing
- Choose powder if you want flexible dosing, prefer adding to beverages, or have difficulty swallowing pills
- Choose citrate for general use and best bioavailability
- Choose gluconate for sensitive stomachs or if new to supplementation
- Choose bicarbonate if you need higher doses under healthcare guidance
How to Take Potassium Supplements
Recommended Dosage
The Adequate Intake (AI) for potassium is 2,600mg daily for adult women and 3,400mg daily for adult men. Most of this should come from food sources. OTC supplements are limited to 99mg per serving, though some bicarbonate forms provide higher amounts. Always follow product label directions unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare provider.
Best Time to Take
Take potassium supplements with food to minimize potential stomach upset. Splitting doses throughout the day (rather than taking all at once) may improve absorption and tolerability. Avoid taking potassium supplements on an empty stomach, especially higher-potency formulas.
Usage Instructions by Form
- Capsules/tablets: Take with a full glass of water during or after a meal
- Powder: Mix thoroughly with at least 8oz of water or another beverage; take with food
- High-potency formulas: Always take with meals; consider splitting into multiple doses
Duration and Cycling
Potassium can be taken continuously as part of a daily supplement routine. Unlike some supplements, cycling is not typically necessary. However, periodic blood testing may be advisable for long-term users, especially those taking medications that affect potassium levels.
Potential Benefits of Potassium
Research suggests potassium supplementation may support several aspects of health:
Blood Pressure Support
A dose-response meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials from 2000 to 2024 found that increased potassium intake is associated with reductions in systolic blood pressure, particularly notable in individuals with hypertension. Potassium may help counteract the effects of sodium on blood pressure.
Muscle Function
Potassium is essential for proper muscle contraction. Adequate levels may help prevent muscle cramps and support athletic performance. Many people report reduced leg cramps after beginning potassium supplementation.
Electrolyte Balance
As one of the body’s primary electrolytes, potassium works with sodium to maintain fluid balance, support nerve signaling, and regulate cellular function. This is particularly important during exercise, hot weather, or illness involving fluid loss.
Heart Health
Potassium plays a critical role in maintaining normal heart rhythm. Research published in the European Heart Journal found associations between adequate potassium intake and cardiovascular health outcomes.
Kidney Stone Prevention
Potassium citrate specifically may help reduce the risk of certain types of kidney stones by alkalinizing urine and reducing calcium excite. Healthcare providers sometimes recommend potassium citrate for patients with a history of calcium-based kidney stones.
Safety Considerations
Potential Side Effects
Potassium supplements may cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort (reduced by taking with food)
- Diarrhea at higher doses
- Gas or bloating
- Less commonly: confusion, irregular heartbeat, or shortness of breath (signs of excess potassium—seek medical attention)
Who Should Avoid Potassium Supplements
Do not take potassium supplements without healthcare provider approval if you have:
- Kidney disease or impaired kidney function
- Heart conditions, particularly those affecting heart rhythm
- Diabetes (may affect potassium regulation)
- Addison’s disease
- Severe burns or tissue injury
Drug Interactions
Potassium may interact with several medication classes:
- ACE inhibitors (captopril, enalapril, lisinopril) — may cause potassium retention
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene) — can significantly increase potassium levels
- ARBs (losartan, valsartan) — may reduce potassium excretion
- Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole — can raise potassium levels
- NSAIDs — may affect potassium balance in some individuals
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Always consult a healthcare provider before taking potassium supplements if you:
- Take any prescription medications
- Have any chronic health conditions
- Are pregnant or nursing
- Have a history of gastrointestinal issues
- Plan to take doses above the standard 99mg serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are most potassium supplements limited to 99mg?
The FDA limits OTC potassium supplements to 99mg per serving due to safety concerns. Higher doses of potassium salt forms can cause gastrointestinal lesions and, in excessive amounts, dangerous hyperkalemia. This limit provides a safety margin for general consumer use without medical supervision.
Can I take multiple potassium capsules to get a higher dose?
While some product labels suggest taking multiple capsules, exceeding a total of 200-400mg daily from supplements without healthcare guidance isn’t recommended. If you need higher potassium intake, discuss options with your healthcare provider, who may recommend prescription forms or dietary changes.
Which form of potassium is best absorbed?
Research indicates that most common forms of potassium (citrate, gluconate, chloride) are absorbed similarly well—approximately 90-95%. Potassium citrate is often preferred because of its good tolerability and potential benefits for kidney stone prevention through urine alkalinization.
Can potassium supplements help with muscle cramps?
Many people report improvement in muscle cramps after beginning potassium supplementation, though research results are mixed. Muscle cramps can have multiple causes, so potassium may help if low potassium is contributing to your symptoms. Adequate hydration and magnesium are also important factors.
Should I take potassium with magnesium?
Potassium and magnesium work synergistically in the body, and some people benefit from supplementing both. Magnesium helps the body utilize potassium effectively. Some products combine both minerals, or you can take separate supplements.
How long does it take for potassium supplements to work?
Effects vary depending on your starting levels and the reason for supplementation. Some people notice improvements in muscle cramps or energy within days to weeks. For blood pressure effects, studies typically measure outcomes over 4-12 weeks of consistent supplementation.
Can I get enough potassium from food alone?
Yes, it’s possible to meet potassium needs through diet. High-potassium foods include potatoes (with skin), bananas, spinach, beans, yogurt, salmon, and avocados. However, surveys consistently show that most Americans consume less than recommended amounts, which is why supplementation can be beneficial.
Are there any foods I should avoid when taking potassium supplements?
There are no specific food restrictions when taking standard-dose potassium supplements. However, if you’re taking high-dose potassium or have kidney issues, your healthcare provider may advise limiting high-potassium foods to prevent excess levels.
Is potassium safe for people on blood pressure medication?
This depends on the specific medication. Some blood pressure drugs (like ACE inhibitors and potassium-sparing diuretics) can cause potassium retention, making supplementation potentially dangerous without monitoring. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining potassium supplements with blood pressure medications.
What’s the difference between potassium supplements and prescription potassium?
Prescription potassium (typically potassium chloride) comes in higher doses—usually 10-20 mEq (390-780mg) per serving. These are used to treat diagnosed hypokalemia under medical supervision. OTC supplements are lower-dose and intended for dietary supplementation rather than treating deficiency.
Bottom Line Recommendations
For most people: NOW Foods Potassium Citrate offers the best combination of quality, bioavailability, and value. Its GMP certification and well-absorbed citrate form make it a reliable daily choice.
For sensitive individuals: Pure Encapsulations Potassium Citrate provides a hypoallergenic formula with 200mg per capsule and minimal additives—worth the premium for those with allergies or sensitivities.
For athletes: Thorne Potassium Citrate with NSF Certified for Sport designation ensures safety for competitive athletes subject to testing.
For budget buyers: Nutricost Potassium Citrate delivers third-party tested quality at the lowest cost per serving with its 500-capsule bottle.
For beginners: Nature Made Potassium Gluconate with USP Verification offers the trust factor and gentle formulation ideal for those new to supplementation.
For those needing higher doses (with healthcare guidance): Life Enhancement Potassium Basics provides 1020mg per two-capsule serving for those whose healthcare providers recommend higher intake.
