Hygienic assessment of potassium intake from food

Abstract

Aim. To assess the level of potassium intake among the adult population in Western Siberia.Materials and methods. The actual level of potassium intake from food products was assessed by surveying a representative sample of 441 adults in the Omsk region (Russia) using a questionnaire of food consumption frequency in 2019–2020.Results. The median daily potassium intake in the studied sample was 2620.9 mg/day (2005.97; 3456.10), which corresponded to the level of potassium intake in other Russian regions and other countries. This level was found to be significantly lower than that recommended by WHO. The share of adult population with a potassium consumption below physiological requirements in the Omsk region was 39.2 ± 2.3%. No significant differences were observed in potassium intake between men and women (except for the age group of 65 years and older), as well as between different age groups. The main potassium sources were established to be vegetables (37.8%), fruits (16.5%), potatoes (9.2%), fresh tomatoes (8.7%), fresh apples (8.0%), and soups (6.9%). An increase in age was associated with a decrease in potassium intake from confectionery and beverages. At the same time, the contribution of such food groups as ‘porridge and pasta’ and ‘fish and seafood’ increased. In women, vegetables and fruits made a slightly greater contribution as potassium sources. In men, these were bakery and meat products.Conclusion. Insufficient potassium intake among the large share of adult population in the Omsk region can be a significant risk factor in the development of arterial hypertension, which requires preventive measures.