The Composition and Culinary Function of Cream of Tartar
Cream of tartar, also known as potassium bitartrate or potassium acid tartrate, is a fine, white powder that serves multiple functions in cooking and baking. It is a natural byproduct of the winemaking process, where it crystallizes on the inside of wine barrels during fermentation. As a culinary ingredient, it's a stabilizer for whipped egg whites, prevents sugar crystallization in candies, and acts as a leavening agent when combined with baking soda to create baking powder. The amount used in these applications is typically very small and considered safe by the FDA. However, outside of the kitchen, some people mistakenly believe it to be a beneficial dietary supplement, leading to dangerous health practices.
The True Daily Effects of Cream of Tartar on Your Body
The effects of cream of tartar on the body are a tale of two very different outcomes, depending on the quantity consumed. The most significant factor is its exceptionally high potassium content—it is roughly 20% potassium by weight. In small, culinary amounts, this is negligible. In large, daily doses, however, this becomes a critical health concern.
Scientifically-Backed Effects
The scientific evidence for cream of tartar's health benefits is limited and primarily revolves around its high potassium content. The most notable effect, backed by an older study, is its ability to relieve constipation when consumed in large quantities. This laxative effect occurs when large amounts are taken orally, but this is a practice with dangerous consequences. The potassium in cream of tartar can also influence blood pressure, as a potassium-rich diet helps mitigate the effects of high sodium intake. However, no studies directly link cream of tartar itself to a sustained reduction in blood pressure. All other popular claims, such as treating acne, relieving migraines, or aiding in smoking cessation, are unproven and lack scientific support.
The Overdose Risk: Hyperkalemia
Ingesting large quantities of cream of tartar daily is extremely dangerous due to the risk of hyperkalemia, a condition defined by dangerously high levels of potassium in the blood. The kidneys regulate potassium levels, but they can be overwhelmed by a massive intake, leading to a cascade of serious symptoms. Multiple case reports exist of individuals ingesting large quantities to “clean themselves out,” resulting in life-threatening hyperkalemia.
Symptoms of hyperkalemia can include:
- Abdominal discomfort and nausea
- Muscle weakness and cramping
- Abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmia
- Confusion and irritability
- Low blood pressure
Individuals with pre-existing kidney disease, heart failure, or those taking medications that affect potassium levels are at an even higher risk. The severity of the symptoms, which can lead to cardiac arrest, underscores why using cream of tartar as a daily supplement is a dangerous, unsubstantiated practice.
Safe Culinary Use vs. Misguided Supplementation
To illustrate the critical difference, consider the table below, comparing the purpose and effects of proper culinary usage versus the misuse of cream of tartar as a daily supplement.
| Feature | Typical Culinary Use (Small Amounts) | Excessive Daily Ingestion (Dangerous Supplementation) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Stabilizes egg whites, prevents sugar crystallization, leavening agent. | Misguided attempt to “detox,” relieve constipation, or supplement potassium. |
| Potassium Impact | Negligible, as only a small fraction is used in recipes. | Potentially massive, leading to excessive blood potassium levels. |
| Primary Effect | Improves the texture and stability of baked goods. | High risk of developing hyperkalemia and experiencing severe symptoms. |
| Safety Profile | Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. | Extreme risk, with documented cases of life-threatening toxicity. |
Conclusion
In summary, what cream of tartar does to your body every day is largely determined by how you consume it. When used correctly in small amounts for baking, it is a safe and harmless food additive. However, when consumed daily in larger amounts, its potent potassium content can disrupt the body's delicate electrolyte balance, leading to the life-threatening condition of hyperkalemia. It is crucial to understand that anecdotal health claims about cream of tartar are not supported by scientific evidence. For a safe and effective way to meet your potassium needs, doctors recommend focusing on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, rather than relying on unproven and dangerous supplements. Individuals considering any new supplements should always consult a healthcare professional. For more information on the dangers of excessive potassium, see the article on hyperkalemia from the National Institutes of Health.
Why Anecdotal Health Claims are Misleading
Many online sources promote cream of tartar as a cure-all for various ailments, from quitting smoking to treating migraines. These claims are not supported by robust scientific evidence and can be dangerous, as they encourage the consumption of large, unsafe doses. The potassium content is often cited as the reason for its purported benefits, but this overlooks the fact that potassium from whole foods is safer and more easily regulated by the body. Relying on such unsubstantiated claims is a serious health risk and should be avoided entirely.
Daily Effects of Cream of Tartar: A Balanced View
In small culinary amounts, cream of tartar is quickly metabolized and its effects on the body are minimal. However, as intake increases, the kidneys must work harder to expel excess potassium. Over time, or with a sudden large dose, this system can fail, causing the severe symptoms associated with hyperkalemia. It's a prime example of how even a seemingly benign kitchen ingredient can become toxic in the wrong dosage, especially for vulnerable individuals. The daily routine of a healthy person should focus on a balanced diet, not the supplementation of high-potassium powders with dangerous side effects.
How to Get Enough Potassium Safely
Instead of turning to cream of tartar, a safe and effective way to get your daily potassium is through a well-rounded diet. Excellent sources include bananas, spinach, potatoes, and beans. These foods provide potassium along with other vital nutrients and fiber, and they allow the body to regulate absorption naturally and safely. For those with a diagnosed potassium deficiency (hypokalemia), medical professionals will prescribe the appropriate treatment, which never involves using excessive amounts of cream of tartar.
Conclusion
While cream of tartar is a useful tool for bakers, its daily use for any perceived health benefit is unfounded and highly risky. The potential for life-threatening hyperkalemia far outweighs any anecdotal claims. The body's need for potassium is best met through a healthy diet, not through dangerous and unproven 'remedies' found online. Consulting a healthcare provider is the safest approach for managing any health concerns or dietary needs.
