In mice eating normal salt, too much potassium (over 1.75% of their diet) makes their blood pressure go up during active hours, especially at high potassium levels like 5%, because of increased activity of certain kidney channels.

Scientific Claim

In male mice fed a normal salt diet (0.29% Na+), dietary potassium intake of 1.75% or higher is associated with increased dark phase systolic blood pressure, with a peak increase of 8.24 mmHg at 5% potassium intake, correlating with elevated aldosterone and αENaC activity.

Original Statement

“During the dark phase, the calculated differential SBP (BP relative to average control BP for a particular intake) was significantly increased from the NS1.75K intake and above (Table 2), peaking at ΔSBP = 8.24 ± 1.27 mmHg (P < 0.01) for the NS5K diet.”

From study:Excess dietary potassium raises blood pressure in male mice by an aldosterone-dependent increase in ENaC

Evidence Quality Assessment

Claim Status

appropriately stated

Study Design Support

Design supports claim

Appropriate Language Strength

association

Can only show association/correlation

Assessment Explanation

The study design (animal cohort) can demonstrate association but not causation. The claim uses 'associated with' which correctly reflects the evidence.

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

Excess dietary potassium raises blood pressure in male mice by an aldosterone-dependent increase in ENaC

Cohort Study

Animal

2025 Nov 17

Contradicting (0)

No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

Excess dietary potassium raises blood pressure in male mice by an aldosterone-dependent increase in ENaC

Score: 13

DOI: 10.1038/s42003-025-08976-y

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