low blood pressure

[ghelen]

OK- right from the get go you are going to have to forgive me because I am
a huge hypochondriac. I just get nervous when I read stories of people who have fainted on Atkins due too low blood pressure. I just want to make sure that there are ways to avoid it. And what about the whole low potassium thing messing with your heart. AAGHH- I'm sure I'm being silly but i could really use some reassurance.

Thank you

[not2late]

Low blood pressure is a condition that some people have naturally. They typically don't faint because their body is used to it. However, if you have normal blood pressure of slightly higher blood pressure and it suddenly drops, you can have a fainting spell. In that case, you need to see your doctor.

Low potassium----potassium rich foods include meat, spinach, tomatoes, and pumpkin.

http://www.drugs.com/CG/HIGH_POTASSIUM_FOODS_LIST.html

If you got the pre-diet blood tests Dr. Atkins recommended, then you should have an idea of what your potassium level is.

Typically if you are eating solid foods, you get enough potassium from them.

By the way, potassium is one of those things that can swing either way. Too much potassium can stop your heart, just like too little potassium can. So the best idea is to consult your doctor before swallowing any potassium supplements.