Potassium citrate

Potassium citrate is a potassium salt of citric acid. It dissolves easily in water and dissociates into potassium ions and citrate, which can act as a buffer. In sports hydration products it serves as a source of potassium and helps regulate acidity.

Role in physiology and hydration

As the principal positively charged particle inside cells, potassium is crucial for nerve impulses, muscle contraction and maintaining fluid balance. Citrate is an intermediate in the citric acid cycle and can be metabolised for energy. When potassium citrate dissolves, the citrate anion can neutralise acids and help maintain a stable pH. This property has made it a common treatment for kidney stones and metabolic acidosis. In hydration products potassium citrate provides a more palatable alternative to potassium chloride because it has a milder, less salty taste. It supplies potassium to replace the small amounts lost in sweat and contributes to the buffer capacity of the drink. However, sweat contains far more sodium than potassium, so the amount of potassium required is modest and most athletes meet their needs through regular meals rich in fruits, vegetables and dairy.

Uses and considerations

Potassium citrate appears in some sports drinks, oral rehydration solutions and dietary supplements. It is also added to processed foods as an acidity regulator and is prescribed medically to prevent kidney stones by alkalising the urine. Foods naturally high in potassium and citrate include citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes, bananas and leafy greens. People with kidney disease or taking medications that affect potassium should be cautious, as high blood potassium can be dangerous. Excessive intake may cause stomach discomfort or diarrhoea. For most active people, a balanced diet supplies sufficient potassium and there is little need to seek out potassium citrate unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Potassium citrate offers a way to deliver potassium with a pleasant taste while helping to control acidity. Its role in sports hydration is secondary to sodium replacement, and normal eating habits generally provide all the potassium an athlete needs.

Related Terms: sodium citrate, potassium chloride, magnesium citrate, hydration, rehydration