A can of light tuna in water provides a moderate amount of potassium, generally around 200 to 400 milligrams (mg) for a standard drained can, with sources showing figures like 391 mg or 200 mg in a 3-oz serving, highlighting that it's not considered low-potassium for some dietary needs, though less than fresh tuna. The exact amount varies by brand, tuna type (light vs. albacore), and can size, but it's a decent source of this essential mineral.
Is canned tuna low in potassium? No, canned tuna is not low in potassium. Canned tuna contains a moderate amount of potassium. It contains roughly about 400 mg per can.
However, according to the NHS, which states a healthy, balanced diet should include at least two portions of fish a week, there's nothing there to say you can't eat tuna every day, unless you're trying for a baby, or pregnant.
Tuna is a good source of protein for people with kidney disease. When considering tuna, be sure to choose low-sodium canned albacore tuna. Tuna is also low in phosphorus and high in omega-three fatty acids, making it a healthy choice for people with kidney disease.
The best sources of potassium
The healthiest canned tuna is typically chunk light skipjack packed in water, due to lower mercury levels and fewer calories than albacore, but for maximum omega-3s, opt for pole-and-line caught albacore (in moderation due to mercury). Look for "no salt added" for sodium control, sustainable sourcing (pole-and-line/FAD-free), and brands that test for mercury (like Safe Catch or Wild Planet https://www.asweetpea).
If you're counting calories and maximizing omega-3 fatty acids, then tuna in water might make a great choice. On the other hand, if moisture, flavor, and vitamin D levels are your focus, then olive oil-packed tuna might be better. Whatever tuna you choose, it's important not to go overboard for this mild-flavored fish.
The most common cause of true high potassium, also called hyperkalemia, is linked to the kidneys. Causes might include: Acute kidney injury. Chronic kidney disease.
Potassium and phosphorus content varies with the fish variety–catfish, cod, orange roughy, sea bass and sole are among the lowest. Salmon contains higher amounts of potassium and phosphorus but can still be worked into a kidney diet by combining it with lower potassium sides and adjusting phosphorus binders if needed.
Fattier seafood like tuna, salmon and sardines contain these omega 3 fatty acids. In addition to eating seafood, other foods and lifestyle changes can also help manage blood pressure.
Potatoes are a great source of potassium. A baked potato contains 925 mg of potassium. French fried potatoes have 470 mg of potassium in a 3 oz serving, along with plenty of fat and calories. An ounce of potato chips provides 465 mg of potassium.
Potassium in cheese is typically low. One exception is when potassium chloride is added to some of the low-sodium cheese options, such as low-sodium cheddar or Colby cheese. Check the ingredient label for this one.
In more severe cases, symptoms such as bronchospasm, respiratory failure, and low blood pressure may be present (vasodilatory shock). Patients with tuna poisoning have symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Omega 3s
These are the good fats that keep your heart happy and healthy. Tuna is brimming with two types of omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, which have been linked to reduced inflammation, improved brain function, and a lowered risk of heart disease.
5 Ways to Make Your Canned Tuna Healthier, According to Registered Dietitians
Tuna has more selenium, vitamin B12, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and vitamin D; however, chicken meat is richer in vitamin B5 and zinc. Tuna covers your daily selenium needs 153% more than chicken meat. Chicken meat has 41 times less vitamin D than tuna. Tuna has 82 IU of vitamin D, while chicken meat has 2 IU.
The healthiest canned fish are small, oily varieties like sardines, mackerel, anchovies, and herring (SMASH), packed with omega-3s, protein, vitamin D, calcium (especially with bones), and lower mercury, with anchovies and sardines often topping the list for overall nutrition and lower cost; salmon is also excellent but choose smaller species like canned sockeye or chum.
Safe Catch Elite Tuna, simply the lowest mercury tuna of any brand.
High in potassium – AVOID – Artichoke, baked beans, bamboo shoots, beetroot (raw/boiled), broad beans, Brussel sprouts, butternut squash, celeriac, chard, chickpeas (dried) boiled, endive, fennel, kidney beans*, mushrooms (raw/fried/dried), okra, onion (fried – small portion allowed), Pak choi, parsnips, soya beans*, ...
If high potassium comes on suddenly and you have very high levels of potassium, you may feel heart palpitations (very fast or pounding heart beats in your chest), shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, or vomiting. Sudden or severe hyperkalemia is a life-threatening condition. It requires immediate medical care.