In researching diet soda for potassium content, I have been introduced to the use of Acesulfame Potassium. This is an artificial sweetener that is used extensively in many foods. The International Food Information Council Foundation says the FDA has found this ingredient safe to use for all segments of the population. I have NOT been able to find any reference to its use by dialysis patients though. Nor have I been able to find out how much Potassium is actually involved in a specific amount of Acesulfame Potassium. This same foundations says that, "Acesulfame potassium is not metabolized or stored in the body. After it is consumed, it is quickly absorbed by the body and then rapidly excreted unchanged."

HOW is it exreted though? If it is absorbed by the body then I would assume that it does not simply pass through the digestive tract to be excreted with the bowel. If it is extreted by the kidneys, then could this ingredient be one that contributes to elevated potassium in a dialysis patient?

Thanks for any info!
Don

Don,

It is primarily excreated by the kidneys (82-100% in dogs and rats), so the answer would be YES, it can contribute to hyperkalemia.
http://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/v16je02.htm

Thanks again, Chuck! Your answers are always informative and helpful. I appreciate them very much!

Don