Patients prescribed furosemide (Lasix) should be advised to eat which of the following to counteract potassium loss?

Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic that is commonly prescribed to manage conditions such as edema associated with heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or renal disease. One of the significant side effects of loop diuretics is the increase in potassium excretion, which can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood). To mitigate this risk, patients should be encouraged to consume potassium-rich foods.

While several fruits are rich in potassium, bananas are particularly well-known for their high potassium content, typically more than peaches, oranges, or apples. Bananas are often recommended for their ease of consumption and palatability, making them a practical choice for patients needing to replenish potassium levels. Peaches, oranges, and apples provide some potassium, but not to the same extent as bananas.

Thus, patients taking furosemide should be advised to incorporate bananas into their diet effectively to counteract potassium loss and maintain adequate potassium levels.