What is Cream of Tartar?
Cream of tartar, or potassium bitartrate, is a fine, white powder that is a byproduct of the winemaking process. It crystallizes on the inside of wine barrels during fermentation and is later harvested and purified. Its culinary applications are widespread and generally safe, as it is used in very small quantities. For example, it stabilizes egg whites to create stiff peaks for meringues and soufflés, prevents sugar crystallization in syrups and candies, and acts as a leavening agent when combined with baking soda.
Historically, it has also been used as a purgative in some medicinal practices, a dangerous use due to its high potassium content. Despite this, many unproven health claims circulate online, suggesting it be consumed regularly as a home remedy.
Why Daily Consumption is a Serious Health Risk
The primary danger of drinking cream of tartar every day stems from its extremely high concentration of potassium. This can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called hyperkalemia, or excessive potassium levels in the blood.
The High Risk of Hyperkalemia
A single teaspoon of cream of tartar contains approximately 495 milligrams of potassium. Since its chemical formula indicates it is 20% potassium, consuming just a few tablespoons can drastically exceed the daily recommended intake of 4.7 grams for an adult. The body's potassium levels must be carefully regulated to ensure proper nerve and muscle function, especially for the heart. An overabundance of potassium disrupts this critical balance, leading to potentially fatal heart rhythm problems. Two documented case reports from 2012 detail life-threatening hyperkalemia caused by intentional ingestion of cream of tartar as a 'cleanse,' highlighting the severity of this risk.
How Your Body Regulates Potassium
Your kidneys are responsible for filtering excess potassium from the blood and excreting it in urine. However, when faced with an acute, massive dose of potassium from ingesting cream of tartar, the kidneys can become overwhelmed. This is particularly dangerous for individuals with pre-existing kidney disease, as their ability to filter and excrete potassium is already compromised.
Who is at Higher Risk?
While anyone can develop hyperkalemia from a large dose, certain groups are at a higher risk of complications from excessive potassium intake:
- Individuals with kidney disease
- People with heart conditions or those taking heart medications
- Those with Type 1 diabetes
- Patients taking medications that increase potassium levels, such as certain diuretics or ACE inhibitors
Misleading Claims vs. Scientific Evidence
Numerous online sources promote cream of tartar for unverified health benefits. It is crucial to distinguish these myths from factual information supported by science.
Debunked Health Myths
- Relieving Migraines: There is no scientific evidence connecting cream of tartar to migraine relief.
- Aiding Smoking Cessation: Claims that it can help a person quit smoking are not scientifically backed and should be disregarded.
- Clearing Acne: While tartaric acid is an AHA used in some cosmetics, there's no data to support the use of cream of tartar for skin health or acne treatment.
The Constipation Connection (With a Warning)
An older study suggested that a small dose of cream of tartar might relieve constipation due to its mild laxative effect. However, this is not a recommended or safe home remedy. Over-the-counter laxatives are a far safer option, as attempting to use cream of tartar medicinally for this purpose carries a significant risk of hyperkalemia.
Cream of Tartar vs. Other Potassium Sources
| Feature | Cream of Tartar (as a Supplement) | Natural Food Sources (e.g., Banana, Spinach) |
|---|---|---|
| Potassium Concentration | Very high (20% by weight) | Moderate, balanced with other nutrients |
| Safety for Daily Use | High risk of hyperkalemia, dangerous | Safe and recommended for daily intake |
| Nutritional Profile | Minimal nutritional value besides potassium | Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber |
| Absorption Control | High dose delivered quickly, overwhelming kidneys | Absorbed more gradually, easily managed by the body |
A Safer Way to Get Potassium
Instead of resorting to a dangerous, concentrated powder, the safest and most effective way to maintain adequate potassium levels is through a balanced diet. Many everyday foods are excellent sources of this essential mineral, and the body is designed to process it naturally from food.
Excellent natural potassium sources include:
- Bananas
- Spinach and other leafy greens
- Potatoes
- Beans and lentils
- Avocados
What to Do If You've Ingested Too Much
If you have intentionally consumed a large dose of cream of tartar or are experiencing symptoms of hyperkalemia, you should seek immediate medical attention. The signs of potassium toxicity can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle weakness or cramping
- Irregular heartbeats or heart palpitations
- Abdominal pain
Conclusion: Caution and Moderation are Essential
While cream of tartar is a useful and safe ingredient in small culinary amounts, it is not a safe health supplement. Drinking cream of tartar every day, or even in large single doses, poses a severe and potentially life-threatening risk of hyperkalemia due to its high potassium content. The health claims often associated with it are largely unproven. The best and safest approach for ensuring adequate potassium intake is to consume a variety of potassium-rich foods as part of a healthy diet, not through consuming concentrated powders. Always consult with a healthcare professional before considering any form of dietary supplementation.
For more information on the dangers of excessive potassium, you can refer to reports from the National Institutes of Health.
