Chicken is a critically important protein source globally. Generally cheap to buy and easy to produce, it's found on the menu in most cultures.
It's also delicious, low in calories, and highly nutritious. However, many people now follow a diet aimed at increasing or decreasing their intake of certain nutrients, such as the low-potassium diet followed by kidney disease sufferers. These people must know the potassium content of common foods and either limit their intake or avoid them entirely to stay within the daily intake recommended by their doctor.
This can be difficult to do, as many foods are high in potassium. And it's particularly difficult if your favorite food is on the list.
Can people suffering from kidney problems safely add chicken to their diets?
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Is Chicken High or Low in Potassium?
Chicken is relatively high in potassium. However, it has one of the lowest contents among meats, so it is an excellent protein source for most on a low-potassium diet.
How Much Potassium Is in Chicken?
One skinless cooked chicken breast contains around 356 mg of potassium, which should be safe for all but the most potassium-sensitive people.
Don't know which foods are high in potassium? Read our article 15 Best Food Sources of Potassium. We also have a guide on this important mineral: Potassium 101: All You Need To Know About Potassium.
Is Chicken Healthy?
Chicken is one of the healthiest, leanest protein sources.
An oven-roasted chicken breast contains 280 calories, mostly from protein. Protein is essential for healthy muscles and keeps you feeling full longer after eating. It also keeps you feeling energized.
Protein also speeds up your metabolism, preventing indigestion and tiredness after eating.
Chicken contains 36% of the recommended daily intake of selenium, which is essential for immune function, thyroid health, and fertility. It's also a potent antioxidant that can help prevent some cancers and age-related cell degradation.
Chicken is an excellent source of vitamin B6, which improves mood and lowers stress. It may also alleviate premenstrual syndrome and morning sickness during pregnancy.
Chicken breast, steamed, grilled, broiled, or roasted, is the healthiest cut with the least calories.
Is Chicken Soup High in Potassium?
Commercially produced chicken soup and stock are higher in potassium than chicken breast. However, both should be fine for those on a low-potassium diet in moderation.
They're also high in sodium, which can increase your blood pressure and heart attack and stroke risk.
Homemade chicken soup is a better alternative, as you can choose healthier ingredients and leave out the additives. Store-bought chicken stock is better than beef stock for making your soup, as it's lower in potassium.
Chicken soup balances your electrolyte levels and may help strengthen your immune system.
Can You Get Too Much Potassium from Chicken?
It would be almost impossible to get too much potassium purely by eating chicken.
Potassium works with sodium to maintain the electrolyte balance in your body, so everyone needs some in their diet. However, those on a low-potassium diet should ensure they stay within the daily limit recommended by their doctor.
Although relatively high in potassium, chicken is safe for most on a low-potassium diet.
It's also delicious, inexpensive, and highly nutritious, so it's a great addition to any healthy, balanced diet.
Don't know which foods are high in potassium? Read our article 15 Best Food Sources of Potassium. We also have a guide on this important mineral: Potassium 101: All You Need To Know About Potassium.