The good news is that we are living longer. The not-so-good news is that as we get into our elderly years, more health-related risks arise – and the details can be overwhelming. Many websites supply helpful information, but sifting through it can be time consuming and overwhelming. Each month I’ll provide information and shortcuts to some important health questions that will help our seniors or loved ones who care for seniors.

This month’s tip is about potassium. Through my mom’s doctor I’ve learned that too much potassium in the system can cause kidney stress and even failure. It can also have a strong affect on the heart.

As we age, our kidneys and the rest of our organs must work harder. Certain foods and medicines accelerate that deterioration. Check with your doctor and pharmacy about drugs that go through the kidneys, as there might be alternatives that bypass that set of organs but accomplish the same goals.

Among the foods high in potassium are potatoes, cantaloupe, lentils, oranges, apricots, avocados, turkey, beef, salmon, raisins, figs, prunes, honeydew, sardines, bananas, kiwi and lima beans. It’s important to keep a good balance of the amount of potassium in the system and not have too much or too little. The health.gov website recommends that seniors limit their potassium level to no more than 2,000 mg per day.

Consult your doctor and/or nutritionist to ensure a safe and healthy level. Too much is equally as bad as too little.

Marla Luckhardt is a Brentwood resident and member of the East Contra Costa Senior Coalition. She works with several local senior care and advocacy groups, and will be providing information in The Press of interest to the senior community. To contact Luckhardt, e-mail marla2054@aol.com.